Autism Spectrum Disorder

In previous versions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM), the Autism Spectrum of Disorders (ASD) were recognized as three separate disorders: Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, and Persistent Developmental Disorder not otherwise specified. As of May 2013, the field of clinical psychology conceptualizes these three developmental disorders as occurring on a continuum, or a spectrum, of severity. According to the DSM 5, “The essential features of ASD are persistent impairment in reciprocal social communication and social interaction, and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. These symptoms are present from early in childhood and limit or impair everyday functioning.” ASD symptoms may persist into adulthood, and the level of functioning depends on the severity of each individual’s symptoms.

What are the signs of autism?

Persistent impairments in reciprocal social communication and social interaction may be verbal or non-verbal and will look different in different people. Some symptoms include:

• Delay in language development or complete lack of speech,
  
• Difficulty understanding social cues (e.g. inability to “read the room”),
  
• Difficulty understanding jokes or double entendres,
  
• Difficulty engaging with others in a joint activity, and
  
• Poor eye contact.

Some symptoms of restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities include:

• Lack of imaginative play in young children,
• Stereotyped motor behaviors (e.g. hand flapping, finger flicking),
• Excessive adherence to routines and resistance to change, or
• Extreme responses to specific sounds or textures.
  

These are not an exhaustive list of symptoms and not all individuals with ASD will show each of the symptoms that are listed above. ASD is a complex disorder, and just one among several other neurodevelopmental disorders that may affect a person’s social skills and communication abilities. Your Thomson doctor will help you navigate the intricacies of what behaviors you are noticing in your child or loved one and provide appropriate treatment recommendations.

Autism Spectrum Test

An Autism Spectrum Test, or neuropsychological evaluation for Autism, will determine if a child falls on the spectrum and at what severity level. Social, communicative (verbal and non-verbal), and emotional impairments must be persistent and pervasive. These impairments must be present in different areas of daily functioning and at a young age. The level of severity is determined by the amount of support required to assist the child beyond what is required for someone at that age and developmental level.

What is the treatment for autism?

If your child is diagnosed with ASD, it is imperative that you pursue appropriate interventions and treatment early in order to support your child’s continued neurodevelopmental growth. Through neuropsychological evaluation, Thomson’s neuropsychologists can help you better understand what your child’s needs are and refer you to appropriate supportive services.

Thomson’s cognitive rehabilitation therapists can partner with your child to teach them social skills that can help compensate for the communication difficulties that they otherwise experience in social settings.
Our therapists are also skilled in addressing the impact of ASD on both your child’s and your psychological health so that feelings of frustration, depression, or anxious worry do not worsen your psychological wellbeing.
We are ready to provide you referrals to outside providers who may help facilitate your child’s continued language and intellectual development.