Study Guide Ch. 9.5

Question 1

What are the core symptoms of autism?

Answer 1

• Reduced ability to interpret the emotions and intentions of others
• Reduced capacity for social interaction and communication
• Preoccupation with a single subject or activity

Question 2

When comparing different children who have an autism diagnosis, would we be safe in assuming the children have similar symptoms, interests, and severity of deficits

Answer 2

No, all 3 symptoms are not present in every case

Question 3

What is a savant? How common are savant abilities in individuals with autism?

Answer 3

• Savant: intellectually handicapped individuals who nevertheless display amazing and specific cognitive or artistic abilities
• 10%

Question 4

Is autism genetically determined? What is currently known about the genetics of autism?

Answer 4

• Genetic factors influence the development of autism
• There is no dominant or recessive gene for autism-> yet, if one twin is diagnosed with autism, there is a 60% chance the other will be diagnosed as well

Question 5

Describe the intellectual functioning of individuals with Williams syndrome. In comparison with their intellectual functioning, individuals with Williams syndrome demonstrate strengths in which cognitive abilities

Answer 5

• They are sociable, empathetic, and talkative
• Their language skills are remarkable considering their low iqs
• Also good in music

Question 6

What is currently known about the genetics of Williams syndrome?

Answer 6

• Causes heart problems
• Show general thinning of the cortex and underlying white matter -> cortical thinning is greatest in boundary of parietal and occipital cortex and the orbitofrontal cortex

Question 7

Which cortical area shows normal thickness in individuals with Williams syndrome?

Answer 7

Superior Temporal Gyrus (primary+secondary auditory cortex)

Question 8

At what age do symptoms of autism become apparent?

Answer 8

Before the age of 3 (as early as 9 or 12 months)