Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 44 children in the United States (2018 data).

We know that there is not one autism but many subtypes, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which people with autism learn, think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently.

Several factors may influence the development of autism, and it is often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and medical issues such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and attention issues.

Signs and Symptoms

The presentation and severity of symptoms vary widely among children with ASD. For some clients, early signs of ASD may be observed by age 12 months or earlier. Some common signs and symptoms of ASD include:

• Avoids making eye contact
• Has delays in language development or total lack of spoken language, has trouble initiating and maintaining conversations with others
• Does not respond appropriately to others’ gestures, facial expressions and feelings, has difficulty using gestures and facial expressions appropriately
• Does not engage in pretend play, prefers playing alone
• Repeats sounds, words, or phrases out of context, performs repetitive movements, such as rocking
• Becomes distressed by minor changes in routines, exhibits oversensitivity to sounds or textures
• Limits conversations to very specific topics

ABA Treatment

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an empirically validated approach used to teach individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities a variety of skills and curriculum. ABA usually is conducted at a high intensity, typically between 20 and 40 hours per week, for multiple years. Evidence suggests that greater treatment intensity leads to superior outcomes. Evidence also indicates that ABA is more effective if initiated in early development; however, services initiated at any age are beneficial for the acquisition of valuable skills. ABA is recommended by both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the US Surgeon General for the treatment of ASD.

What do we focus on in ABA Therapy?

1. Teach new skills, such as communicating wants and needs, social skills, play skills, self help, and independent living skills.
2. Generalize skills across environments (e.g., from homes to school and community)
3. Replace unwanted behavior with socially appropriate behavior (e.g., hitting, self injury, property destruction, tantrum).