BASIC INFORMATION ON AUTISM (ASD)

WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF ASD?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopment disorder characterized by difficulties with social communication and social interaction and restricted and repetitive behavioural patterns, interests, and activities.

I THINK THE AUTISTIC BRAIN TENDS TO BE SPECIALIZED BRAINS. AUTISTIC PEOPLE TEND TO BE LESS SOCIAL. IT TAKES A TON OF PROCESSOR SPACE IN THE BRAIN TO

HAVE ALL THE SOCIAL CIRCUITS. – TEMPLE GRANDIN

THE LEVELS IN AUTISM

Without proper support, individuals with level 1 autism will display noticeable impairments in social

communication. Common behaviours in individuals with level 1 autism include Inflexibility in behaviour and thought. Difficulty switching between activities. Problems with executive functioning hinder independence. Level 1 is also considered high- functioning autism and/or Asperger’s.

Level 2 and Level 3 are often considered more severe, need more support and are generally recommended in ABA (applied behavioural analysis) therapy. ABA is generally offered in Autism centres with behavioural therapists and their senior therapists with a master’s and BCBA. Clinical Psychologists supervise autism centres. Many in the autism community have had bad experiences in ABA and new approaches are developing.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES?

Autism is quite unique from one individual to another, particularly when considering high-functioning autism. In high-functioning autism, individuals often show signs of ADHD, OCD, CD, anxiety, depression and other disorders or challenges before noticing that autism is the key difference. AuDHD is a diagnosis with autism and ADHD.

Individuals with ASD often do not look you in the eyes, and fidget or stimming, such as rock in their seats. If an autistic make repetitive sounds, simply sit back and wait. There is no need to correct or interrupt them. Often it’s a reaction that might be excitement or worry or many other emotions. Please understand that basic information in autism does not cover autism’s uniqueness. Continue to learn autism as there are many aspects.

Another factor to consider is autistic males often show more stereotypical behaviours that society is aware of as autism. However, autistic females tend to wear more masks by showing more emotional, social, and other ways that they often go ‘under the radar’, which is why there is a current trend of females being diagnosed as an adult.

I DO NOT SUFFER FROM AUTISM, BUT I DO SUFFER FROM THE WAY YOU TREAT ME.

– TYLER DURDIN

MELTDOWNS AND SHUTDOWNS

How do you react to meltdowns? Do you find them overwhelming or threatening? Have you seen one with an adult? Or only children? Meltdowns often are explained by autistic individuals as an overwhelming emotion from overstimulation. That could include too many questions, constant social interaction, sensory overload and too many emotions at once. If you start to notice one, don’t judge and try not to react. Acceptance is a huge key in showing support.

Shutdowns are internalized. An autistic person in a shutdown will generally stop speaking, avoid eye contact, and not engage. They might focus considerably on their interests and need less sensory stimulation. If you notice an autistic client having a shutdown, support them by letting them take time to answer questions and take a moment to focus on something they enjoy. Ask if they need to turn off their screen when in virtual sessions.

A strategy to support them is to integrate fidget toys and ask if they have something they’d like to bring with them during a social setting, such as a blanket or wear a hoody. Many strategies used with autistics often depend on their full diagnosis, such as other neurodivergent aspects they may have (i.e. ADHD, OCD, etc.). Please take time to learn about autism because this is a basic amount of information.

Resources

Websites

  • https://www.autismontario.com/
  • https://www.autismspeaks.ca/
  • https://www.kerrysplace.org/
  • https://www.autism.net/

 

Books

  • Smart but Scattered
  • CBT Toolbox for Children & Adolescents
  • AIM & ACT Modality workbooks
  • Books written by Dr. Temple Grandin