Oconomowoc Developmental Training Center


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AUTISM SPECTRUM Disorders (Autism)

Overview

Autism is one disorder in a spectrum of disorders that require identification through intensive differential diagnosis. Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism), broadly defined, is a neurological disorder affecting brain function and resulting in impaired social interaction and communication skills and a significantly limited range of interests, activities and behaviors. Autism typically appears during the first three years of life. Symptoms of autism appear in many varied combinations and range from mild to severe. Therefore, each child with autism acts in a unique way.

It has been estimated that autism occurs in approximately 1 out of 500 individuals. Autism affects all races, occurs in all parts of the world and in all types of families. Boys are affected about four times more often than girls. Autism is the third most common developmental disability and is considered a pervasive developmental disorder because it has such a wide ranging effect on the individual.

Characteristics/Symptoms

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR), Individuals with autism may show some of the following characteristics:

Avoidance of physical contact (For example, an infant may arch the back when touched or become limp if picked up.)
Delay or lack of language development
Problems with both verbal and nonverbal communication (Use of gestures to replace words or use of inappropriate words, short attention span, lack of eye contact, inappropriate or "bland" facial expressions)
Peculiar patterns of speech (odd tone, volume or pitch)
Echolalia (repetition or echoing of words or sounds made by another person)
Failure to develop peer relationships appropriate to the developmental level (shows little or no interest in making friends)
Problems in social interactions and play (spends time alone rather than interacting with others)
Lack of spontaneous sharing of experiences with others
Lack of or inappropriate social and emotional responses to others
Unusual play activities (impairment in or lack of imaginative play, little or no imitation of others, little or no "make-believe" play
Oversensitivity to touch; under sensitivity to pain
Repetition of body movements, such as hand flapping or rocking
Aggressive and/or self-injuring behavior
Tantrums
Inability to understand the perspectives or thoughts of others
Narrow, focused attention span
Savant (extraordinary) skills which the average person does not possess (such as musical or artistic talent or skills in mathematics)
Need for and adherence to routines, rituals and "sameness"
Odd mannerisms
Unusual interest in objects or parts of objects

Individuals with autism may also have other disorders affecting brain function. Approximately one-fourth may develop a pattern of seizures. About two-thirds of these individuals test in the range of mental retardation.

Causes

As yet, the specific cause of autism is unknown. However, researchers do know that it is due to structural differences or abnormalities in the brain and not due to "bad parenting" or psychological "trauma" experienced by the child.

Treatment

Because autism is one in a spectrum of disorders and each case is unique, a highly individualized approach to each child is imperative. Treatment should be based on evaluation of the sequelae (groups of symptoms and behaviors) manifested by the child.

Behavior modification, sensory integration therapy, speech-language therapy, vision therapy, music therapy and auditory training have been found to be beneficial in some cases. Intensive early behavioral intervention (30-40 hours per week) has been shown to be helpful in children with autism. Positive reinforcement is crucial to any successful intervention.

The use of vitamin therapy, other supplements and modified diets have also been used with some success. Clinical research studies continue to look for more promising treatments for autism.

At ODTC, we attempt to provide a highly stimulating, motivating and reinforcing environment for children with autism. Our treatment team identified symptoms and behaviors in need of active treatment, and considers the strengths and needs of each child in developing an individual treatment plan. The environment is highly structured, and consistent routines are established which become familiar and soothing to the child, providing the safety and security needed to assist them in participating in and benefiting from treatment. Highly prescribed, specific behavioral intervention systems are used not only to teach skills in all areas of functioning, but to facilitate progress in developing pro-social behaviors, and reducing undesirable or dangerous behaviors. Sensory stimulation, sensory integration activities, and a high staff ratio also contribute to providing the best treatment environment possible. Our education staff offer a curriculum and classroom support specific to the needs of the child with autism, designed to enhance the child's strengths, and utilizing teaching methods and modalities based on the child's best learning mode.

The staff at ODTC recognize that each child is unique with individual strengths and needs. Our priority is always the well being of each child. If we find that ODTC cannot offer the very best care and services for your child, we are happy to help facilitate placement in another facility.

Contact Information

Feel free to contact us if you have any specific questions or would simply like more information or resources.