Autism Spectrum Disorder and Anxiety

Vocabulary flashcards based on the lecture notes regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder and anxiety.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction, communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior.

Anxiety

A state of being uneasy, apprehensive, or worried about what may happen; concern about a possible future event.

Cognitive Picture Rehearsal

An instructional strategy that uses repetition or rehearsal in the form of pictures with an accompanying script to increase appropriate behavior or decrease maladaptive behavior.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Can include anxious thoughts, physical reactions like shortness of breath, and behavioral manifestations such as avoidance of situations.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

A technique that involves tensing and then relaxing muscle groups to help reduce stress and anxiety.

Comorbid Anxiety Symptoms in ASD

Studies suggest that 75-80% of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder experience significant anxiety or anxiety-related disorders.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Includes generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, panic disorder, acute stress disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Deep Pressure Techniques

Interventions that apply firm touch or pressure to the body to help reduce anxiety.

Sensory Modulation

The ability to regulate and respond to sensory input in an adaptive way.