4C - Normal variations in brain development Flashcards
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers specifically to the limitless variability of human cognition and the uniqueness of each human mind.
Coined by Judy Singer, neurodiversity emphasizes the recognition of all neurotypes as part of a thriving human society.
Who is Judy Singer?
Judy Singer is an Australian sociologist recognized for developing the concept of neurodiversity during her Honours Degree at the University of Technology Sydney in the late 1990s.
Her research focused on the social context of autism and neurodiversity.
What does the term ‘neurodivergent’ refer to?
Neurodivergent refers to people whose brains function differently from others, such as individuals with autism or ADHD.
Many prefer the term ‘neurodiverse’ to embrace differences positively.
What is the key premise of neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity emphasizes that there is no normal or healthy type of brain, and it points to the unique combination of abilities and needs of every individual.
It advocates viewing neurological conditions as normal human differences.
What are some conditions considered neurodiverse?
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia
- Dyscalculia
Neurodiversity is an umbrella term for all neurodevelopmental disorders.
What characterizes autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
ASD is characterized by poor communication and social skills, lack of understanding of emotional and social cues, and struggles to form and maintain relationships.
Symptoms are evident from early childhood.
What are the severity levels of autism spectrum disorder?
- Level 3: Severe
- Level 2: Moderate
- Level 1: Mild
Severity is determined by social communication impairments and restrictive, repetitive patterns of behavior.
What is theory of mind?
Theory of mind is the cognitive ability that allows us to make judgments about other people’s mental states, usually developing between ages three and five.
Impaired theory of mind is often observed in individuals with autism.
What is executive function?
Executive function is a cognitive process that helps us set goals, organize and plan, focus attention, and ultimately get things done.
It involves working memory, problem-solving, and flexible thinking.
What does central coherence refer to?
Central coherence is the ability to derive overall meaning from a mass of details.
Weak central coherence can lead individuals with autism to focus on details rather than the bigger picture.
How is the cognitive ability to infer the mental states of others vital?
It is vital for the development of social communication.
This cognitive ability helps individuals adjust their behavior based on others’ beliefs and intentions.
What is weak central coherence?
A cognitive variation observed in individuals with autism, where they may focus on details rather than the broader context.
What is savant syndrome?
A condition where individuals demonstrate exceptional skill or knowledge in a specific area, often alongside developmental conditions like autism.
What are the four main deficits that may indicate autism according to the DSM-5-TR?
- Deficits in social communication and interaction
- Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities
- Symptoms present in early developmental period
- Symptoms cause significant impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.
Why is it difficult to distinguish a neurotypical brain from an autistic brain?
There is significant overlap in brain functions and structures, making it challenging to identify distinct differences.
What cognitive variation in theory of mind can be seen in neurodivergent children with autism?
Individuals with autism usually have a delayed development of theory of mind, affecting their ability to understand others’ thoughts.
How can weak central coherence be considered a strength in individuals with autism?
It allows for intense focus and expertise in specific areas, leading to exceptional skills or knowledge.
What are key symptoms of ADHD?
- Inattention
- Distractibility
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity.
What is the age requirement for ADHD symptoms to be present for diagnosis?
Symptoms must be present before the age of 12.
What is working memory?
Memory that allows us to process incoming sensory information.
What cognitive variations related to executive functioning occur in individuals with ADHD?
- Organising and prioritising tasks
- Focusing and sustaining attention
- Regulating alertness and processing speed.
What does alertness refer to in the context of ADHD?
The ability to be vigilant and to sustain focus.
How do individuals with ADHD typically estimate time?
They tend to overestimate even very short time intervals.
What does the ‘belief’ question in the Sally–Anne test assess?
It assesses the understanding of false beliefs and perspective-taking.
