Autism Spectrum Disorder

Question 1

Monethetic vs Polythetic diagnostic criteria

Answer 1

Monethetic= one idea.(diagnostically, individual must meet ALL diagnostic criteria).
Polythetic= sharing a number of characteristics.(diagnostically, must meet a certain number of criteria)

Question 2

Pervasive Developmental Disorder

Answer 2

diagnostic category of disorders which have delayed socialization and communication skills. Included Autism Spectrum Disorder. Term is now obsolete in DSM-V

Question 3

Diagnostic Criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (DSM-v)

Answer 3

a) persistent deficits in social communication, not accounted for by general developmental delays.
AND b) restricted/repetitive behaviours, hyper/hypo sensitivities to environmental stimuli
AND c) symptoms present during childhood (although may not be recognized until social demands exceed deficiencies, and symptoms are not age-limited.

Question 4

Prevalence of ASD

Answer 4

1 in 50 children (=2%). Seemingly an epidemic in past 20 years, but arguable as to whether just better diagnosing..
Also ratio of 4:1 male:female.Also seems that males more likely high functioning than females.

Question 5

Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule

Answer 5

Used as standardised tool for diagnosing and assessing Autism.Series of structured and semi-structured tasks with social interaction between diagnostician and patient. Used in conjunction with ADI-R

Question 6

Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)

Answer 6

Structured interview with the parents, and cover’s patient’s full history.

Question 7

Causes/contributors to ASD

Answer 7

1. Genetics. Polygenic. Multiple chromosomes, including some genes on Y.Complex gene-gene and gene-environment interactions.Strong genetic influence.
   2.Environment. Many prenatal risks including thalidomide, viral infections, maternal anticonvulsants, some artificial repro techniques and some immune factors.
   3.Neurobiology. Pre and post natal disruptions in neuronal pruning.
   There may be multiple aetiologies of ASD.

Question 8

Theories on ASD

Answer 8

1. Theory of Mind.Individuals with ASD have impaired Theory of Mind, therefore making it hard for them to empathise with others or to appreciate that someone may think or feel differently.
2. Theory of Executive Functioning.People with ASD have abnormalities of executive function, making it hard to cope with minor changes and problem solve.
3. Theory of Weak Central Coherance.Those with ASD have weak central coherence, ie difficulty seeing “the big picture”.Thought strength in seeing the fine detail though may contribute to the ASD savant.