What are the Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, there are two types of main behaviours: “restricted/repetitive behaviours” and “social communication/interaction behaviours.” All people diagnosed do not show all the behaviours, but many will show several.
Restrictive/repetitive actions may include:
- Repeating certain actions or having unusual behaviours.
- Having overly focused interests, such as moving objects or parts of objects.
- Having a constant, intense interest in certain areas of interest.
Social communication/interaction behaviours may include:
- Getting upset by a slight change in a routine or being in a new or overly stimulating setting.
- Making little or inconsistent eye contact.
- Tending to look at and listen to people less often.
- Rarely sharing enjoyment of objects or activities by pointing or showing things to others.
- Responding in an unusual way when others show anger, distress, or affection.
- Failing to, or being slow to, respond to someone calling their name or other verbal attempts.
- Having difficulties with the back and forth of conversations.
- Talking at length about favourite subjects without noticing that others are not interested or without giving others a chance to respond.
- Repeating words or phrases that they hear, a behaviour called echolalia.
- Using words that seem odd, out of place, or have a special meaning known only to those familiar with that person’s way of communicating.
- Having facial expressions, movements, and gestures that do not match what is being said.
- Having an unusual tone of voice that may sound sing-song or flat and robot-like.
- Having trouble understanding another person’s point of view or being unable to predict or understand other people’s actions.
How is Autism Spectrum Disorder Treated?
Early treatment and proper care can improve a person’s symptoms and ability to function, and reduce difficulties as they learn new skills. The wide range of issues facing those “on the spectrum” means that there is no single best treatment for ASD. Working closely with a doctor or health care professional is an important part of finding the right treatment program. RPS has experienced therapists and counselling staff that leverage cognitive behavioural therapy and experiential therapy while using RPS Integration Model, which offers relevant, real-time life strategies working towards independence.