What is autism?
Autism is a complex spectrum of differences characterized by altered sensory processing, perceptions and unique experiences. It manifests in a wide range of traits and abilities, shaping each individual's experience of autism in their own way.
Currently, there is ongoing discourse surrounding the medical, psychological, and social models of disability, along with the concept of neurodiversity. These three models offer distinct perspectives on autism.
Historically, the medical and psychological models have dominated the understanding of autism, leading to its perception as a disorder or pathology. These models have emphasized the challenges and limitations associated with autism, often overlooking the strengths and contributions of individuals on the spectrum.
In recent years, the neurodiversity perspective has gained significant recognition and popularity. This perspective advocates for viewing autism as a natural variation of human diversity, rather than a disorder. It emphasizes the importance of respecting and celebrating the unique abilities and contributions of individuals on the spectrum.
What is autism through the lens of the social model? What does neurodiversity mean?
Autism through the lens of the social model is viewed as a natural variation in human brain function, rather than a disorder or disability. It emphasizes that the challenges faced by autistic individuals often stem from societal barriers and a lack of understanding, rather than from their inherent differences.
Neurodiversity highlights that autism is a spectrum of differences, akin to other human variations like hair color or eye color. Challenges faced by autistic individuals are often rooted in societal barriers that fail to accommodate their unique needs and perspectives.The social model advocates for creating an inclusive society that embraces neurodiversity and removes barriers for autistic individuals.
Neurodiversity as a broader concept encompasses the idea that neurological differences should be respected and valued, rather than viewed as deficits. It recognizes that different neurological profiles bring unique strengths, perspectives, and contributions to society.
What is autism through the lens of the medical model?
The medical model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) views it as a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent challenges in social interaction and communication, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. These differences manifest early in childhood and can significantly impact an individual's daily functioning.
Neuroscientific research has revealed differences in brain development and structure between individuals with ASD and those with neurotypical development. These differences are thought to contribute to the core symptoms of ASD. However, the exact nature of these neurobiological variations is still under investigation.
Autism is categorized within medical and psychological classification systems. Two prominent examples include:
The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD): A globally recognized system for defining medical diagnoses. And the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM): A classification system for mental disorders.
Earlier versions of these classification systems, such as ICD-10 (1994) and DSM-5 (2013), recognized three distinct subtypes of autism: Early Infantile Autism, Asperger Syndrome and Atypical Autism.
The latest version of the ICD, ICD-11 (2019), has consolidated these subtypes under the umbrella diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This reflects a growing understanding of ASD as a spectrum of conditions with varying presentations and severity. A diagnosis of ASD requires the fulfillment of specific criteria, including:
- Persistent impairments in social interaction and communication: These may include difficulties with social-emotional reciprocity, nonverbal communication, and maintaining relationships.
- Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities: This may manifest as repetitive movements, inflexible routines, or intense focus on narrow interests.
- Symptoms present early in childhood: These challenges should be evident during early development, typically before the age of three.
What is autism through the lens of the psychological model?
The psychological model of autism views autism as a complex condition influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. These factors interact to shape an individual's unique experiences and challenges.
Both the medical and psychological models view autism as a diagnosable condition and focus on the challenges and impairments associated with autism. This informs how treatment plans are created. Treatment goals aim to help individuals develop skills and strategies to enhance their daily functioning and overall well-being.
What is early infantile autism?
Early infantile autism (EIA), also known as Kanner's autism, is a specific presentation within the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) umbrella. Children with EIA exhibit atypical developmental patterns, often emerging before the age of three. They may face challenges in various areas of communication, social interaction, and behavior.
What is Asperger's Syndrome? What's the difference between Asperger's and autism?
As of 2021, the International Statistical Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) has categorized Asperger Syndrome within the broader diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This reflects a growing understanding of ASD as a spectrum of conditions with varying presentations and severity. Core characteristics of Asperger Syndrome include: differences in social interaction and communication and preference for repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.