Understanding Autism: An Introduction to Pervasive Developmental Disorders
Autism is part of a group of disorders known as pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs), which fall under the autism spectrum as described in the DSM-IV-TR. Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) typically occur in approximately 1 in 150 children, with a higher prevalence in males. Current research indicates a genetic component and emphasizes that autism is not caused by parental rejection. The diagnostic criteria include impairments in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors, with symptoms manifesting before age three.
Understanding Autism: An Introduction to Pervasive Developmental Disorders
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Presentation Transcript
Introduction to Autism January 24, 2006 Pat Mirenda, Ph.D. University of British Columbia
What is Autism? • Autism is one a group of disorders that are known, collectively, as the pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs) • The PDDs constitute the “autism spectrum,” as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV-TR, 2000)
The Autism Spectrum/PDDs • autistic disorder (autism) • Rett’s disorder • childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD) • Asperger’s disorder • pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) or atypical autism
Demographics • Recent research suggests that ASDs occur in approximately 1/150 children (Fombonne, 1999) • 4-5 times more prevalent in males • We used to think that most individuals with autism also had intellectual disability, but current research suggests that this is not the case
Causes • NOT caused by emotional abuse or neglect, or rejection by parents (mothers) • Clear genetic component, with multiple interacting genes (2-10) • Prenatal central nervous system damage • Neurochemical component • We still don’t understand the cause(s) enough to prevent or treat it medically
Diagnostic Criteria (2000) • Child must have at least 6/12 possible symptoms to have autism; fewer constitutes PDD-NOS • Symptoms must occur across three categories: • impairments in social interaction • impairments in communication • restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behaviour, interests, or activity
Additional Criteria • Must have delays or abnormal functioning prior to age 3 in at least one of the following areas: • social interaction • language used in social communication • symbolic or imaginative play
Temple Grandin, Animal Scientist, Architect http://www.grandin.com/
Anthony Crudale, Marathon Runner
Jessica Park, Artist (http://www.jessicapark.com)
Tito Mukhopadhyay, Poet (http://www.cureautismnow.org/tito/)
Individuals with Advanced Language • Common problems: • Literal interpretation of others’ language • Unusual topical interests and speech patterns • High stress/anxiety in communication contexts, leading to communication breakdowns • Difficulty understanding when to talk, what to talk about, etc. in conversations