Autism Core Knowledge - QASP Exam
Prep Already Passed
Describe why Autism is considered a spectrum disorder
ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that is complex to define and diagnose. The rationale for
using a dime
...
Autism Core Knowledge - QASP Exam
Prep Already Passed
Describe why Autism is considered a spectrum disorder
ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that is complex to define and diagnose. The rationale for
using a dimensional rather than a categorical concept of ASD is that a single umbrella term of
ASD, with specific information about the level of expression, is more accurate and consistent
with the research literature and clinical experience.
Identify the historical definitions of Autism
Autism was considered to be an expression of schizophrenia or psychosis in childhood and the
cause to be the mother not loving the child
Identify the currently accepted prevalence rates of Autism
1 in 59 children
Identify what is meant by the triad of impairments
social communication, social interaction, repetitive/restricted (imagination)
Social Communication
Difficulties in communicating vary widely and they can be verbal and non-verbal. Many have a
literal understanding of language and therefore they think people always mean what they say.
Something as simple as body language can be totally alien to people with autism.
Problems with social communication may show:
o not fully understanding the meaning of facial expressions, common gestures or tone of voice
o echolalia (repetition of what has been said in a different context)
o difficulties in understanding jokes and sarcasm
o making up words
o unusual patterns of verbal communication
o inappropriate tone of voice
o difficulty differentiating between "I" and "you"
o lack of gestures and facial expressions
o having a literal understanding of language, for example, with sayings or expressions such as "it
is raining cats and dogs", or "kill two birds with one stone".
Social Interaction
Problems with social interaction may show:
o a lack of interest in others
o being aloof, distant and not paying attention
o being alone and withdrawn
o using inappropriate or strange social behavior because they find it difficult to express feelings,
needs or emotions
o a lack of social skills
o difficulties in making and maintaining friendships
o lack of understanding about friendship or strangers.
Repetive/Restrictive (Imagination)
Through social imagination we are able to predict and understand other people's behaviour,
thoughts and feelings, imagine situations outside our immediate daily routine or comprehend
ideas that might be a bit abstract.
Problems with social imagination may show:
o difficulty in the development of imaginative play where a preference for acting out the same
scenes each time is noted
o difficulty in understanding how others think, feel and react
o problems with imagination in general
o problems with predicting actions or events in the future
o putting up with new or unfamiliar situations
o understanding concepts such as danger or threat
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