Social Work in Mental Health, 10(4), November 2012, pp.311-330.
Publisher:
Taylor and Francis
Place of publication:
Philadelphia, USA
To date, little is known about how a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is delivered and experienced by families. This study examined the experiences of 10 parents receiving a diagnosis of ASD for their child. Findings revealed a lengthy, complex, and discouraging assessment and diagnostic process that resulted in parents feeling confused, disempowered, and overwhelmed. Identified themes associated with diagnosis comprised: initial recognition that “something is different”; waiting, worry, and uncertainty; preference for diagnostic information in a hopeful tenor; feeling overwhelmed with information and emotion at diagnosis; processes of grief, relief, and making sense of ASD; and becoming an advocate, expert, and case manager. The importance of empowering parents by providing support, information, resources, and tools for navigating the complexity of service/treatments at the time of diagnosis was emphasized within a parent–professional partnership. A protocol for practice, focused on enhanced parental empowerment, is offered including specific clinical guidelines (what to share, how to share, and when to share) for sharing a diagnosis of ASD.
To date, little is known about how a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is delivered and experienced by families. This study examined the experiences of 10 parents receiving a diagnosis of ASD for their child. Findings revealed a lengthy, complex, and discouraging assessment and diagnostic process that resulted in parents feeling confused, disempowered, and overwhelmed. Identified themes associated with diagnosis comprised: initial recognition that “something is different”; waiting, worry, and uncertainty; preference for diagnostic information in a hopeful tenor; feeling overwhelmed with information and emotion at diagnosis; processes of grief, relief, and making sense of ASD; and becoming an advocate, expert, and case manager. The importance of empowering parents by providing support, information, resources, and tools for navigating the complexity of service/treatments at the time of diagnosis was emphasized within a parent–professional partnership. A protocol for practice, focused on enhanced parental empowerment, is offered including specific clinical guidelines (what to share, how to share, and when to share) for sharing a diagnosis of ASD.
Journal of Social Work in Disability and Rehabilitation, 11(1), 2012, pp.1-32.
Publisher:
Taylor and Francis
Place of publication:
Philadelphia, USA
This article explains recent developments in the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterised by marked deficits in social interaction and communication with unusually restricted interests ASD has a tremendous impact on society and are increasingly being diagnosed. Increased developmental screening, use of standardised
This article explains recent developments in the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterised by marked deficits in social interaction and communication with unusually restricted interests ASD has a tremendous impact on society and are increasingly being diagnosed. Increased developmental screening, use of standardised diagnostic tests, and a broadening of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria might account for the increased incidence. Evidence-based treatments for children with ASD, reviewed by the National Standards Project, are primarily behavioural interventions with foundations in the sciences of applied behaviour analysis and developmental psychology and emphasise improved functional communication and social reciprocity.
Good Autism Practice, 12(2), October 2011, pp.7-18.
Publisher:
British Institute of Learning Disabilities
Given the rise of diagnoses of Autistic Spectrum Disorders, accurate classification is imperative. In this graduate paper, the author describes how the diagnosis of subgroups within the autism spectrum have been classified, and considers the new classification system for DSM-V and its implications. An analytical review is taken at the current and future classification of Autistic Spectrum
Given the rise of diagnoses of Autistic Spectrum Disorders, accurate classification is imperative. In this graduate paper, the author describes how the diagnosis of subgroups within the autism spectrum have been classified, and considers the new classification system for DSM-V and its implications. An analytical review is taken at the current and future classification of Autistic Spectrum Disorders, assessed against the original observations of Asperger and Kanner. Despite the loss of the term Aspergers Syndrome the DSM-V is seen as a positive move, and a more accurate description of the autistic spectrum.
... perspective; the way that the child with ASD sees the world. The books is designed to help parents and professionals working with the child feel confident, informed and able to cope with the road ahead following a diagnosis. It answers the questions: What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? What does a diagnosis of ASD mean for the child and for the parent? and explains how parents can learn to fully understand
This concise clear guide is written as a starting point for anyone encountering autism spectrum disorders (ASD) for the first time. It covers the essential information needed to understand the condition and offers effective practical strategies for assisting children who are living with ASD. The author advocates putting aside conventional thinking and considering things from a different perspective; the way that the child with ASD sees the world. The books is designed to help parents and professionals working with the child feel confident, informed and able to cope with the road ahead following a diagnosis. It answers the questions: What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? What does a diagnosis of ASD mean for the child and for the parent? and explains how parents can learn to fully understand behaviours common to ASD and help the child grow and prosper.
The paper provides a non-systematic review of the current literature relating to the diagnosis and epidemiology of autism. It aims to describe the way in which autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is identified, defined and diagnosed; and how changes in the conceptualisation and understanding of autism have impacted on clinical practice and research findings. Despite its diverse presentation
The paper provides a non-systematic review of the current literature relating to the diagnosis and epidemiology of autism. It aims to describe the way in which autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is identified, defined and diagnosed; and how changes in the conceptualisation and understanding of autism have impacted on clinical practice and research findings. Despite its diverse presentation and complex aetiology, the autism spectrum is increasingly well understood amongst professionals and the general public. Specific issues where gaps in knowledge remain relate to the nature of Asperger syndrome and the profile of females with ASD. The prevalence of ASD appears to be in the region of 1%. The apparent increase over time in the incidence of autism is considered. Despite the clear perception that the incidence is on the increase, this remains impossible to confirm or refute. It is not clear how proposed changes to the diagnostic criteria for ASD will affect measures of prevalence, everyday clinical diagnostic practice, or the use of terminology to describe sub-groups of autism.
... contains ten session plans. Topics include: feelings around diagnosis; the positive aspects of being on the autism spectrum; disclosure; socialising; and employment.
This DVD features a series of short film clips people who have been diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum talk about their experiences. The scripts were written by people on the autism spectrum. Professionals can use the resource to introduce the idea of the autism spectrum to newly diagnosed young people and adults and encourage discussion about what it means. An accompanying a CD-ROM contains ten session plans. Topics include: feelings around diagnosis; the positive aspects of being on the autism spectrum; disclosure; socialising; and employment.
Subject terms:
user views, autism, autistic spectrum conditions, diagnosis;
Social Work with Groups, 33(1), January 2010, pp.69-83.
Publisher:
Taylor and Francis
Place of publication:
Philadelphia, USA
Receiving a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder often elicits strong emotional reactions from parents of the diagnosed child. Follow-up services and continued support for these families is a necessary component to help families adapt and meet their and their children's needs. This pilot study was conducted to determine if support groups could meet the express needs of parents after their child had received a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder. A psychoeducational approach was used in the implementation of two 6-session, co-facilitated support groups. Pre- and post-support group surveys, using the Family Empowerment Scale, were administered to the parents attending both support groups to measure advocacy skills and self-efficacy. The results found statistically significant increases in the average mean scores for the 3 subscales of the Family Empowerment Scale. The article concludes that, in the immediate aftermath of receiving this diagnosis, the encouragement and assistance gained through the mutual aid process of a support group can be invaluable. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
Receiving a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder often elicits strong emotional reactions from parents of the diagnosed child. Follow-up services and continued support for these families is a necessary component to help families adapt and meet their and their children's needs. This pilot study was conducted to determine if support groups could meet the express needs of parents after their child had received a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder. A psychoeducational approach was used in the implementation of two 6-session, co-facilitated support groups. Pre- and post-support group surveys, using the Family Empowerment Scale, were administered to the parents attending both support groups to measure advocacy skills and self-efficacy. The results found statistically significant increases in the average mean scores for the 3 subscales of the Family Empowerment Scale. The article concludes that, in the immediate aftermath of receiving this diagnosis, the encouragement and assistance gained through the mutual aid process of a support group can be invaluable. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
Subject terms:
parents, support groups, autistic spectrum conditions, diagnosis;
Child: Care, Health and Development, 36(3), May 2010, pp.431-436.
Publisher:
Wiley
There have been far more diagnoses of autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) in the last 20 years but the reasons for this are disputed. The consensus among epidemiologists and other experts is that this is due to changes in diagnostic practice rather than changing aetiological factors; which would indicate a true increase in incidence. This study set out to examine lay views concerning the aetiology and prevalence of ASD and to discover whether they matched the consensus position. Over 100 unsolicited communications (letters, emails and several telephone calls) were received by a UK epidemiological study of ASD. These were analysed qualitatively in order to examine spontaneously expressed lay beliefs about the prevalence and aetiology of ASD. The majority of correspondents suggested theories about environmental causes of ASD. The study demonstrated the strength of lay belief that the true incidence of autism is rising, and is due to risks from modern technologies and changing lifestyles. The authors point to the contrast between lay explanations of increasing prevalence and the consensus opinion of medical experts.
There have been far more diagnoses of autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) in the last 20 years but the reasons for this are disputed. The consensus among epidemiologists and other experts is that this is due to changes in diagnostic practice rather than changing aetiological factors; which would indicate a true increase in incidence. This study set out to examine lay views concerning the aetiology and prevalence of ASD and to discover whether they matched the consensus position. Over 100 unsolicited communications (letters, emails and several telephone calls) were received by a UK epidemiological study of ASD. These were analysed qualitatively in order to examine spontaneously expressed lay beliefs about the prevalence and aetiology of ASD. The majority of correspondents suggested theories about environmental causes of ASD. The study demonstrated the strength of lay belief that the true incidence of autism is rising, and is due to risks from modern technologies and changing lifestyles. The authors point to the contrast between lay explanations of increasing prevalence and the consensus opinion of medical experts.
Subject terms:
public opinion, autistic spectrum conditions, diagnosis, environmental factors;
Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 53(10), October 2009, pp.852-873.
Publisher:
Wiley
... of intellectual disability (ID) in assessing the association. The first section looks specifically at the possible associations while the second section focuses on the clinical implications in terms of diagnosis and intervention, and the implication for conceptual and theoretical frameworks. Formal diagnostic assessments suggest an association between ASD and specific syndrome groups but detailed investigation
There is growing interest in the association between autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), or ASD-related phenomenology, and a number genetically linked conditions. This systematic review examines the possibility of such an association in the following syndrome groups; Fragile X, Rett, Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, Down, Angelman, CHARGE, and Phenylketonuria. Special consideration is given to the role of intellectual disability (ID) in assessing the association. The first section looks specifically at the possible associations while the second section focuses on the clinical implications in terms of diagnosis and intervention, and the implication for conceptual and theoretical frameworks. Formal diagnostic assessments suggest an association between ASD and specific syndrome groups but detailed investigation reveals subtle but qualitative differences in the presentation of ASD-like phenomenology in particular groups. The degree of ID of the individual appears to play a part in the development and presentation of ASD-like characteristics but cannot solely account for the heightened prevalence of ASD characteristics in some specific syndromes. The authors suggest that caution is needed in interpreting the significance of superficial similarities between ASD and the behavioural phenotypes of certain genetically determined syndromes. However, recognition of ASD-like characteristics in individuals with genetic syndromes is crucial in ensuring that individuals receive appropriate support.
Asperger's or AS) is one of several autism spectrum disorders (ASD) characterized by difficulties in social interaction and by restricted, stereotyped patterns of behaviour, interests and activities. AS is distinguished from the other ASDs in having no general delay in language or cognitive development. Although not mentioned in standard diagnostic criteria, physical clumsiness and atypical use of language are frequently reported
Asperger's or AS) is one of several autism spectrum disorders (ASD) characterized by difficulties in social interaction and by restricted, stereotyped patterns of behaviour, interests and activities. AS is distinguished from the other ASDs in having no general delay in language or cognitive development. Although not mentioned in standard diagnostic criteria, physical clumsiness and atypical use of language are frequently reported