W10 - ASD

Question 1

What is ASD?

Answer 1

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder that impacts on the way a person communicates with and relates to others.

It is not a progressive condition, but can be seen as changing due to the way a person with ASD responds to the changing demands of life as they age.

Question 2

What are the 3 elements of the triad of impairment of social interaction? (Wing & Gould, 1979)

Answer 2

• Impairment of social interaction
• Impairment of communication
• Impairment of social understanding and imagination

Question 3

List the theories of potential causes of ASD:

Answer 3

Psychogenic Theory - idea of a cycle of maladaptive relationship

Biological Theory - evidence supports brain damage as the cause, and co-morbidity is common

Genetic Causes - familial element is evident, and links with genetic conditions such as fragile X have been identified

Birth Damage - traumatic delivery/lack of oxygen

Infection - occuring in utero

Question 4

Explain the DSM V Dyad of Impairment:

Answer 4

- Persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across contexts: deficits in social-emotional reciprocity, nonverbal communicative behaviours and/or the development, maintenance and understanding relationships

- Restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities - repetitive motor movements; use of objects or speech (hand flapping, lining up toys, echolalia); inflexibility to routine change; restricted, fixated interests that are abnormal in intensity/focus; hyper or hypo reactivity to sensory input/environments

Question 5

What is the impact of ASD on parents/carers?

Answer 5

• Loss
• Anger
• Guilt
• Managing behavioural difficulties
• Fear for the future
• Concerns over education
• Breakups/strain on relationships
• Impact on siblings
• Judgement from others