...Autistic Spectrum Disorder: Tests, Signs, and Symptoms That Aid in Early Intervention Abstract This paper contains information pertaining to Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Throughout this work, I discuss how ASD can cause significant social, communication, and behavior challenges. I identify many signs and symptoms to look for as children are growing. I share research on an investigation into a tilt test and also a study on siblings that are at high and low risk for ASD. My own personal experience as the mother of a child diagnosed with ASD and early childhood educator is discussed in great length. Awareness of the symptoms, special tests, and typical development are mentioned so that a child with ASD can be diagnosed early and receive services to support their learning and success throughout life. Autistic Spectrum Disorder: Tests, Signs, and Symptoms That Aid in Early Intervention Introduction Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a subject close to my heart. My oldest daughter was diagnosed several years ago at about nine years old. She was extremely high functioning with above average language skills throughout her early childhood. Her speech was quite formal for a young child, but this really made her sound intelligent. Having strong language skills made it more difficult to see the delayed social conventions. As a young child, my daughter had difficulty listening to others and allowing for the give...
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...Is There Any Genetic Evidence to Explain Why Musical Prodigies Exist? Kristina Vianca Constantino Tabuena San Diego Miramar College Abstract By definition, one is considered a musical child prodigy if he or she possesses an exceptional ability, at a professional level, for music at a young age. Musical ability is defined as the capacity for music perception and production. This is really interesting because the children looks like they have been hand-picked by nature to have these gifts since they have parents who are just like any of us. This phenomenon has been known for a long time, however, there are only a few researches that have been done about this and that is why we hardly understand why musical geniuses exist and how come it is not common at all. Some theories suggest that prodigies are linked to autism. Some of these children have been treated as subjects for long-term researches to find any genetic factors that will link a trait that characterizes being a musical prodigy. The phenomenon of musical geniuses is a product of both genetic factors, as seen in their family background and link to autism, and environmental factors like family support and their devotion to practice. Methods I chose this topic because I find musical prodigies very interesting. I already started researching about them since I have been watching documentaries and following news about them. I watched a documentary about a polyglot, a master of multiple languages, named Tim Doner and I...
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...Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) Autism spectrum disorder is a really interesting disorder to learn. In 2012, approximately 1 in 88 child in the United States was diagnosed with Autism by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network. This is a tremendous increase compared to the reporting’s in the 1980’s; it was reported as 1 in 10,0000. ASD’s are a “spectrum disorders”, which means it affects each person in distinctive ways, and can also range from mild to severe circumstances. This disorder is a group of developmental disabilities that cause a great social, interaction and ways someone responses to challenges. Therefore these people with similar characteristics handle cognitive information in a different way than other people. Since the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder differ on each individual. Children with ASD fall into three categories such as; social defacement, hard time with communicating, and rhythmic behaviors. Social difficulties are common with all ASD disorder. Social impairment has an effect on a child’s everyday life. For example, a child will not be able to respond to parent or others by 1 year of age. The child might like solitary better and not play with others, has facial expressions that are improper, does not know the difference of personal boundaries and also may have trouble understanding about their own feelings etc. Let’s say that a typical child starts to understand and learn things as...
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...Autism: The increase in Autism Diagnoses Autism is one of a group of serious developmental problems called autism spectrum disorders (ASD) that appear in early childhood — usually before age 3. Though symptoms and severity vary, all autism disorders affect a child's ability to communicate and interact with others. Many researchers have believed that the continuous increase in autism cases over the last decade isn't real, but can be explained by "artifacts." Among these artifacts are the vaccines containing Thimerosal, a genetic problem, and the broadening of the diagnostic criteria for autism. One in 110 American children are considered to fall somewhere along the autism spectrum, according to the latest report released by the federal government (Park). One train of thinking is that the increased numbers of mandatory vaccinations have exposed the children to an overdose of mercury that can have adverse effects on a child. The main reason why anyone talks about vaccines and autism is that some parents have noticed changes in children shortly after the children were vaccinated. Their kids seemed to be developing normally, then suddenly stopped interacting with people and lost language abilities, a condition called "regressive" autism. Most medical researchers argue that this is probably a coincidence: Autism symptoms tend to become apparent around the same time that children are scheduled to get routine vaccines. Although there are two separate issues concerning vaccines and autism...
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...One of the most intriguing medical mysteries today is autism, research in this area has exploded within the past decade. Medical professionals and other researchers are looking at a variety of different areas that might provide important insight on mechanisms that may cause this disorder. Epigenetics is the study of how various changes may arise from gene expression rather than alterations in the genetic code itself. The connection between epigenetics and autism is best articulated by Dr. Alycia Halladay, the director of research for environmental sciences for Autism Speaks. Dr. Halladay explains, “because epigenetics gives us a way to look at the interaction between genes and environment, it holds great potential for identifying ways to prevent or reduce the...
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...understanding of ASD and suggests a comprehensive set of guidelines on best practices for detection, diagnosis and treatment for children with autism based on the currently available evidence randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or systematic reviews. - See more at: "We have come to understand ASD as a remarkably heterogeneous constellation of conditions that covary with other disabilities and disorders (e.g., intellectual disability, epilepsy, ADHD, anxiety disorders) and various medical problems," writes Dr. Stephen Scherer, senior scientist and director of The Centre for Applied Genomics at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and director of the McLaughlin Centre at the University of Toronto, with coauthors. "Recent discoveries of underlying genomic factors have shown great complexity and implicate various networks of causal factors." ASD, which includes a variety of traits that range from mild to severe, is estimated to affect about 1% of the population, although it is under-recognized in the developing world. The review, by specialists in pediatrics, psychiatry, epidemiology, neurology and genetics from across Canada, outlines the current understanding of ASD and best practices for pediatricians, family doctors and specialist clinics, and identifies resources for clinicians. Topics include: What causes autism? The causes are thought to be multi-factorial: genetic, epigenetic, and non- genetic factors. How is ASD diagnosed?The diagnostic assessment of ASD allows a physician...
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...including ASD students with typical peers, as well as, if inclusion is right for all ASD students. The literature includes evidence that the different components support students’ progress in general education settings. More empirical data needs to be collected to see if different components work for all students with Autism Spectrum Disorder while with typical peers. Keywords: students with ASD, inclusion, typical peers, successful strategies, perceptions of inclusion, support, and modification for students. Topical Reference List: Inclusion of Autism Spectrum Disorder Students Until recently, the common practice was to pull children with Autism or other disabilities out of regular education classrooms for majority of the day or even have them completely segregated. It seemed more efficient to provide specialized instruction in separate classrooms where children with Autism could received individualized attention without having to alter the mainstream curriculum that typical peers received. But, different practices were proposed in the 1980’s for greater efforts to “include” students with disabilities into regular education classrooms. The main purpose of my study is to determine how full inclusion makes a difference in the way students with Autism Spectrum Disorder excel within the classroom and other basic areas of functioning. Some questions that this study aims to answer include: 1. What are the benefits and drawbacks of inclusion for ASD students...
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...Disorder (ASD) most commonly known as Autism is a neurological disorder that affects the normal brain function. It is a disorder characterized by deficits in three major areas of behavior-social, communicative and the display of repetitive or restricted behaviors. This research paper will provide a review of people with autism spectrum disorders, including the symptoms, diagnosis criteria, and possible causes. In addition, it will describe with how it has impacted the society, families and themselves. Completing the Puzzle of Autism Spectrum Disorder Can you imagine trying to understand what your parents or peers are saying but you don’t really know what the words mean? Sometimes this can make a child very upset and frustrated just because they can’t come up with the right words to express his or her feelings or thoughts. These kids with special needs try to live their lives by learning to handle stuff that are challenging and annoying for them. People with autism can make a significant contribution to society, as well as to their families. However, having autism is generally difficult for the person themselves and their family, it also involves great financial sacrifice. What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) most commonly known as “Autism” is a neurological disorder that has an effect on normal brain function, affecting a person’s communication skill, social interaction, behavior and interest. ASDs are spectrum...
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...and its diagnosis. This paper will provide a great knowledge and understanding of diagnosing Autism. There are many symptoms and signs exhibited in children diagnosed with Autism. There is no clear answer for why or how this disorder occurs, making it hard to properly diagnose those afflicted. It is extremely important for the child’s caregiver to be proactive and seek out medical expertise at the onset of behavioral issues in their child. Diagnosing the child at a younger age can ensure proper treatment and interventions for him/her. I have chosen to write my paper on the symptoms and diagnosing of Autism. This disorder is mysterious, but also fascinating. Being a mother, I worry all the time about new and strange afflictions that are attacking our children. To be proactive in our children’s lives, we must be knowledgeable and observant for the early warning signs or symptoms. Throughout the research process of preparing my paper, I have gained a greater comprehension of this disorder and the first indicators that has prepared me to act promptly for the sake of my children. In the last decade, Autism has gained a lot of attention across the globe. Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder that usually appears in the first few years of life. ASD effects normal development of social and communication skills in the brain. Diagnosing ASD is difficult, as there is no medical test. Currently the only way to diagnose ASD is by specially trained physicians and psychologist...
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...behaviors” (WebMD). Autism spectrum disorder or ASD for short; is how the doctors are recognizing any child or adult that falls within the Autism category. Clearly we have a growing problem with ASD, it is estimated that “1 out of every 88 children” will be given a diagnosis of autism (Jaslow, 2014). Why instead of decreasing, are autism cases rising? Some say it due to the ways that doctors are able to diagnose autism, but I think there is a different cause. There is one thing that most children have in common and that is the immunizations that are given to most children from birth. Doctors have found that ASD affect boys more that girls and they are “almost five times more likely” to be diagnosed with some form of ASD then girls (Jaslow, 2014). There is enough evidence at present to say that the rise in autism cases can be linked to immunizations. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism can be defined by “a group of complex disorders of the brain development” and “has roots in very early brain development” (Autism Speaks, 2015). Children typically show some signs of autism between 2 to 3 years old. Some of the most common characteristics that most ASD patients display would include: difficulties in social environments, a difficulty in verbalizing there wants or needs. Children that have been diagnosed with ASD tend to need repetitive actions. These repetitions if disrupted could cause behavior issues and children with ASD need these repetitions to function on a daily...
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...http://www.sagepub.com/journalsPermissions.nav Citations: http://aut.sagepub.com/content/14/3/155.refs.html Downloaded from aut.sagepub.com by guest on November 12, 2010 Editorial What can innovative technologies do for Autism Spectrum Disorders? S V E N B Ö LT E , O F E R G O L A N M AT T H E W S . G O O DW I N L O N N I E Z WA I G E N B A U M autism © 2010 SAGE Publications and The National Autistic Society Vol 14(3) 155–159; 365028 1362-3613(2010) Technology deals with human usage and knowledge of instruments and techniques to help people control and adapt to their natural environments. The usage of technology is taking an increasingly prominent role in research and clinical practice related to Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). At the International Meeting for Autism Research (IMFAR), where the idea for this Special Issue on Autism and Technology was born, the number of accepted technology presentations increased from eight in 2004 to 36 in 2008. In 2009, a session dedicated solely to autism and technology was held at IMFAR where over 30 presenters from around the world demonstrated their work. Autism Speaks, one of the largest autism research funders internationally, continues to support an Innovative Technology for...
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...not completely developed immune systems. In contrast, both biological and epidemiological studies tend to contradict the vaccine-autism theory. Given this fact, it is of vital importance to thoroughly examine both sides of the coin and come to a reasonable conclusion. PECULIARITIES OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER Autism, or, more broadly, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), includes a number of complex cognitive and communicational disorders. According to Richard Lathe, the molecular biologist, autism is difficult to define (20). However, there exists a range of distinctive peculiarities, by which one can recognize ASD. Repetitive patterns of behavior, a withdrawal from social relatedness and interaction, and specific movement patterns characterize autism. The symptoms occur from early childhood, usually at age of 2-3 years, and affect daily functioning (Lathe 32). The diagnosis of ASD incorporates the evaluation of intellectual disability and language impairment. The use of the word “spectrum” in the diagnosis indicates a series of symptoms, skills and levels of disability in functioning that individuals affected by ASD may have. For instance, some adults and children are able to perform daily activities with little support, while others require continuous supervision. As mentioned before,...
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...feels like to live in America with Autism. Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD is a complex brain development disorder. ASD has varying degrees of severity and many sub groups, including Asperger's syndrome. Most people with ASD are born with the disorder and can be diagnosed as early 2 years old, although symptoms...
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...Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorder Psychology PS501-03 Dr. Valerie Balldin March 18, 2014 Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorder Abstract Autism refers to a group of development brain syndromes, collectively known as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).The term spectrum is a wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of disability, or impairments that children with ASD can have. Some of the ASD children are insignificantly impaired by their symptoms while others are severe. Behavior Analysis and Autism Spectrum Disorder According to American Psychiatric Association; "Autism is a neuro-development syndrome defined by deficits in social reciprocity and communication, and by unusual restricted, repetitive behaviors.” (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). It is a condition that usually begins at infancy-before or by three years old. Affected children begin by not using words to communicate though they may recite the alphabet and familiar passages. There is a wide variation of the degree in the way autism spectrum affects individuals. Each child with autism has a unique abilities, challenges and symptoms. Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder: Even though Autism is not a single Disorder; but it is a spectrum of closely related Disorders with a shared core of symptoms:...
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...Cognitive Deficits in Children with Autism Melissa Ridjaneck Cognitive Psychology PY 280 Carlow University Jennifer K Roth, PhD Although autism has been around for many years, it has just recently been getting diagnosed more and more. Currently, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 68 American children are on the autism spectrum (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2014). 1 in every 42 boys and 1 in every 189 girls are diagnosed with autism in the United States (Autism Speaks, 2014). According to the DSM-V, there are five criteria that need to be present in order for an individual to be diagnosed with ASD. The first criterion states “persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts such as; deficits in social-emotional reciprocity, deficits in nonverbal communicative behaviors used for social interaction, and deficits in developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships (DSM-V, 2013).” The second criterion states “Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities, as manifested by at least two of the following; stereotyped or repetitive motor movements, use of objects, or speech, insistence on sameness, inflexible adherence to routines, or ritualized patterns or verbal nonverbal behavior, highly restricted, fixated interests that are abnormal in intensity or focus, hyper- or hypo reactivity to sensory input or unusual interests in sensory...
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