applying explanations to modifying - autism Flashcards
biological - state?
amygdala dysfunction theory states that the amygdala is a small, almond shape in the temporal lobe in each hemisphere. Its associated with empathy. Early amygdala growth in childhood linked with ASD is 6-9% faster in ASD.
biological - explain?
Amygdala dysfunction is a biological explanation as the focus ins on how the structure and function of the brain can lead to ASD. This explanation sees the cause of ASD as being biological and so physical therapies should be considered.
biological - method of modifying?
deep brain stimulation. This involves a battery pack being implemented in the chest which sends an adjustable high frequency current to electrodes in the brain – this current can be used to disable neurotransmitter communication between neurons in small regions of the brain. Volker et al carried out the first known case study into the use of DBS in the treatment of autism. Verbal communication skills and repetivtive behaviours both improved dramatically in a 13-year-old boy 2 years with electordes implanted in the amygdala.
biological - link?
DBS links with biological explanations of ASD as both see the cause as being biological (structure and function of the brain) and the solution as biological – functional modification of the brain (amygdala) through DBS.
individual - state?
his theory suggests that issues in the development of a child’s theory of mind lead to the social and communication difficulties seen in ASD.
individual - explanation?
Theory of mind is our ability to understand that others have their own minds which are different from out own – it is also vital for our ability to emphasise. Baron Cohen argues that deficits in ToM occur early in development and often develop symptoms of ASD. ToM is an individual differences explanation as it focuses on cognition and deficits in cognitive processes as explanation for ASD.
Individual - Modifying?
Relationship development intervention is a type of CBT for ASD. RDI aims to address the social and communication deficits in ASD by modifying the child’s perceptions of other peoples thoughts and feelings and developing dynamic intelligence. RDI also helps to improve the child’s emotional relationship with their parents which is hoped will then be transferred to other relationships later in life.
individual - link?
Both see the cause of behaviour as being with the cognitive processes. Those with ASD emphasise have deficits in ability to emphasise. RDI aims to develop skills of empathy and TOM through emotional referencing. Both see cognitive processes as the key to autism.
social - state?
ASD have a cognitive bias towards systemising at the cost of their ability to empathise with others. Impairments in emphathising are thought to explain the social problems those with ASD may show like low levels of eye contact and limited ability to understand the motivations of others
social - explain?
Empathising-systemising theory is considered a social explanation of ASD because it focuses on the impact cognitive biases (perceive events in certain ways) can have on social interactions with others. This is therefore a socio-cognitive theory of ASD.
social - modifying?
PECS is a form of communication designed to complement spoken language. One of the main aims of PECS is to improve functional communication (e.g. i want a drink). Both focuses on social deficits. ESM theory states that those with ASD have deficits in their ability to empathies with others but have strengths in systemising. PECS therefore aims to develop communication skills using a structure system of picture exchange. PECS uses if-then logic to help the child learn to communicate effectively. ‘if i hand over this card, i will get the object i want’.
social - link?
Both the theory and therapy see systemizing and communication with others as the key to understanding ASD.
