ASD - Key Concepts

Overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Historical Background

  • Leo Kanner (1943)

    • Introduced the concept of "Early Infantile Autism" (classic autism).
    • Key Characteristics:
    • Autistic Aloneness: Difficulty in social interactions.
    • Insistence on Sameness: Preference for routine and consistency.
    • Significant Language Problems: Challenges in communication.
    • Intellectual Disability: Many individuals may also have cognitive impairments.

  • Hans Asperger (1944)

    • Described "Autistic Psychopathy".
    • Key Characteristics:
    • Difficulty Interacting with Others: Struggles in social connections.
    • Preoccupation with Specific Topics: Intense focus on narrow interests.
    • Good Vocabularies; Basic Language Skills: Better language skills compared to Kanner's subgroup.
    • Recognized as a polygenic disorder with a diverse presentation that often requires lifelong support.

  • Lorna Wing

    • Criticized Kanner’s narrow criteria for autism, advocating for a broader view (spectrum disorder).
    • Introduced fewer essential criteria highlighting the lack of social instinct.
    • Key Contributions:
    • Founded the National Autistic Society in the UK, enhancing awareness and support.
    • Coined the term "Asperger Syndrome" in 1976, popularizing Asperger's earlier work.

Prevalence of ASD

  • Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network

    • Analyzed data from various states including California, New York, and Florida among others.
    • Monitored autism prevalence among 4- and 8-year-olds.
    • Continued follow-up studies into the teen years (16 years old).

  • Demographics

    • ASD is one of the largest minority groups in the U.S.
    • Rates differ by gender, with boys being diagnosed at least 4 times more often than girls.

Understanding the Trends in Prevalence Rates

  • Autism Prevalence Rates Over the Years

    • 2004: 1 in 150
    • 2006: 1 in 166
    • 2008: 1 in 125
    • 2010: 1 in 110
    • 2012: 1 in 88
    • 2014: 1 in 68
    • 2016: 1 in 68
    • 2018: 1 in 59

  • Factors Influencing Increased ASD Diagnosis Rates

    • May reflect:
    • Actual Increase: More individuals may be genuinely diagnosed due to evolving understanding of the disorder.
    • Increased Awareness: Greater public and professional awareness improving detection.
    • Increased Willingness: Families more willing to seek diagnoses and support.
    • Expanded Criteria: Diagnostic criteria have broadened over time, capturing more individuals under the ASD umbrella.