Developmental Disorders Including Autism

Developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), are a group of conditions that can have a significant impact on a person's development, impairing their ability to interact and communicate with others, and restricting their range of activities and interests. Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by core impairments in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors or restricted interests. Facial expressions and gestures may not be interpreted correctly, and it may be difficult for a person with ASD to initiate or respond to social interactions, and to start conversations. They may have difficulty understanding the feelings and perspectives of others, and may find it difficult to engage in “small talk” or social banter. They may be quite literal in their interpretations of language, and tend to use language in a way that makes conversations quite difficult. Repetitive behaviors or restricted interests are also core features of ASD. Repetitive behavior may include “stimming,” rocking, flapping (hand or other body parts) and repeating certain phrases or words. Restricted interests in activities, objects and subjects are common. Individuals with an ASD experience major difficulties in forming relationships or friendships with peers, and may benefit from specialist intervention to support their social skills. This could include social skills classes, where activities are designed to teach children the skills required for everyday activities and relationships, such as how to initiate conversations, make and keep friends, understand body language, deal with bullying and conflict. A diagnosis of ASD can be very beneficial in helping to understand the challenges a person is experiencing, and in directing appropriate interventions that may help the individual’s communication, social and behavior difficulties.