Intro to Autism and ID

What are the DSM-5 criteria for autism?

Restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities; sensory processing issues; and differences in social communication.

What three areas must be impacted to diagnose ID?

Conceptual (e.g. language, memory), social (e.g. judgement, empathy), and practical functioning (e.g. personal care, money management)

What IQ score is associated with ID?

An IQ score below approximately 70

What genetic factors are linked to autism?

Many genes are involved; it may be inherited or related to a syndrome like Down syndrome or Fragile X

What environmental factors are linked to autism?

oxins, drugs, air pollutants, older parents, prematurity, delivery complications, maternal obesity/diabetes

What prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal factors are linked to ID?

Prenatal: Alcohol, toxins, infections

Perinatal: Birth trauma, low birth weight, prematurity

Postnatal: Infections, traumatic brain injury, severe neglect

Are most cases of ID and autism explained by a known cause?

No – most are idiopathic

What are common restricted/repetitive behaviours in preschoolers with autism?

Lining up toys, flicking lights, spinning, flapping, insisting on routines, echolalia, preference for sensory play

How might social communication be affected in preschoolers with autism?

Less joint attention, fewer responses/initiation, reduced imitation, more parallel play, echolalia, prosody differences

What sensory traits are common in autism?

Hyper- or hypo-reactivity to sounds, lights, textures, smells, etc.

What is the te ao Māori term for autism and what does it mean?

Takiwātanga – “in their own time and space.”

How does the te ao Māori view of autism differ from medical views?

It is strengths-based and non-medicalised, focusing on each child’s uniqueness and capabilities

What kind of support do children with autism and ID typically need?

Long-term, structured support in learning, daily routines, social skills, planning, behaviour, sensory needs, and language

Who is typically involved in the support team for children with autism or ID?

SLTs, psychologists, early intervention teachers, OTs, and whānau

How is language disorder in autism similar to DLD?

It often includes difficulties with morphology, syntax, and vocabulary.