cluster

Running Head: AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Sheila Alvarez

The Praxis Institute

Hialeah Campus

ENC 101

English Composition I

Professor Xiomara Viera

03/02/2021

Definition and the Causes

Autism is a spectrum of developmental disabilities characterized by marked social, behavioral and communication challenges (Jobs et al.,2019). Children with autism also exhibit repetitive behavior. It can range from minor symptoms to major. There is no definite cause of autism but it is perceived that disorders of the sensory and language areas in the brain contribute to the disorder. Environmental and genetic factors influence the development of the disorder Autism is prevalent four times in boys than girls.1 in 54 children in US have the disorder (Hodges et al.,2020). It is a spectrum disorder because it occurs with variation in the signs and symptoms depending on race, economic status, and ethnicity. It is a lifelong disorder and interventions only manage the symptoms but does not cure the disorder.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of autism appear at the age of three in children but can also be noticeable at the age of 18 months. The signs and symptoms include repetitive behaviors such as jumping and hand flapping. Fixation to objects or activities, inability to express oneself, extreme sensitivity to sound and light, and difficulties with having conversations (Hodges et al.,2020). Children with autism usually have problems with communication and expressing themselves. They also have a problem with learning and memory but most times, they are good at art and Maths. Children with autism can communicate and interact with others but in a way that cannot be understood by a normal Child (Jobs et al.,2019)

Role of Occupational Therapy Team

Occupation therapist has a role in the management of autism in children. Occupational therapists work with parents, siblings, and the teachers of autistic children in setting the goals of management of the immediate problems. Occupational therapists focus on interaction, classroom performance, and behavior (Gibbs, 2017). Applied behavior analysis whereby positive behavior is reinforced and negative behavior discouraged is the best therapy for autism. Modification of the environment to suit autistic children improves their behavior. Additionally, using their peers, or a sibling to help them with interaction challenges improves their ability to interact and express themselves. Occupational therapists help in the development of handwriting and fine motor skills. With proper interventions, autistic children excellent develop artistic and music skills (Hodges et al.,2020).

References

Gibbs, V. D. (2017). Detection and treatment of autism spectrum disorder by occupational therapy practitioners: Addressing racial disparity in diagnosis. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 71(3), 7103360010p1-7103360010p4.

Hodges, H., Fealko, C., & Soares, N. (2020). Autism spectrum disorder: definition, epidemiology, causes, and clinical evaluation. Translational Pediatrics, 9(Suppl 1), S55.

Jobs, E. N., Bölte, S., & Falck-Ytter, T. (2019). Spotting signs of autism in 3-year-olds: comparing information from parents and preschool staff. Journal of autism and developmental disorders, 49(3), 1232-1241.