Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder, affects the individual’s behaviour, social, and communication functioning. To manage these behaviours and other associated challenges psychological interventions plays an important role for managing signs of autism. Diagnosing and helping people to cope with the disorder, is the first priority of an experienced psychologist.
Psychosocial interventions adopt various behavioural and educational strategies to support people with autism. Interventions such as applied behaviour analysis, sensory integration therapy, along with art, drama and music therapies are aimed at getting positive outcomes in people with autism.
Signs And Symptoms
Some of the most common signs and symptoms seen in a person with autism include:
- Does not babble or point at objects of their desire
- Failure to maintain steady eye contact
- Does not respond when called by their name
- Difficulty while interacting with peers
- A gradual loss of some of the acquired skills
- Unusual responses to sensory input
- Repetitive behaviour such as rocking or flapping arms
- Obsessive interest in objects/parts of the objects or repeat a particular topic
Diagnosis
Prompt diagnosis of autism symptoms is important. Intensive early intervention can help a child in acquiring new skills and also hone the existing fragile skills. It may help them to succeed in school, acquire good jobs and perform tasks essential in their day to day life. Therefore, if parents notice signs of autism in their child, please arrange for an appointment with the family physician.
Experts such as psychologists, paediatricians, and neuro-psychologists can confirm the reason behind the brain and behavioural or emotional activities in people with autism. To make a perfect diagnosis, they draw information through:
- Conducting interviews (patients and parents)
- Observing the behaviour
- Medical examinations to confirm the involvement of other conditions
- Assessments for cognitive abilities
Psychological interventions in autism play an important role to help people of all age groups to manage challenges associated with the disorder.
Management
Each person with autism displays different symptoms having a varied range of strengths and challenges. Psychologists recommend treatments and therapies based on the emotional, behavioural and cognitive requirements of each person. As the related conditions last a lifetime, the psychologists plan strategies that help people with autism to succeed in school, home, and at workplace. Their goal is to make them successful at every stage when moving towards adulthood.
Despite variations in the psychological approach, the goal is still to treat the symptoms and to provide a stable as well as independent life to people with autism. Some of the psychological interventions that support people's needs are:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Social Skills Training
- Cognitive & Behavioural therapy
- Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
- Medical Management
These developmental or behavioural interventions help people with autism to form a positive and meaningful relationship with others. The therapies focus on inducing skills (social and communication) useful in organized settings. They also develop skills beneficial for daily living.
