1. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
1.1. Diagnostic surveys may help you determine if ASD is a potential. Consult a family doctor, psychologist, developmental pediatrician or nurse practitioner for further testing. (Autism Canada)
1.1.1. There are a variety of diagnostic tests available that can be administered by professionals, community service providers, and in some cases, parents.
1.1.2. Diagnostic test can vary/be tailored to specific age groups: toddler, child, teen, adult.
1.2. There are two related disorders, psychologists and psychiatrists assess individuals for this disorder. (Autism Speaks)
1.2.1. Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder
1.2.1.1. 1. Persistant difficulties in the use of social verbal and non-verbal communication (e.g., greetings, changing how to communicate for different contexts, not following the 'rules' of conversation - taking turns speaking, listening, etc., inferences/idioms/sarcasm are lost 2. Early onset of symptoms, but may not become apparent until the child has out grown the age appropriate communication abilities. 3. Symptoms cannot be attributed to another condition or cause. (Autism Speaks)
1.2.2. Autism Spectrum Disorder
1.2.2.1. Persistant deficits in social interactions and communication, including: a) social-emotional reciprocity b) non-verbal communicative behaviours for social interactions c) developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships (Autism Speaks)
1.2.2.2. Has 3 levels of severity: (Autism Speaks)
1.2.2.2.1. Level 3 (most severe) - requires very substantial support: severe deficits in communication, very limited response to interactions, minimal initiation of interactions. Great distress in changing activities, inflexible, repetitive behaviour, all interferes with general functioning.
1.2.2.2.2. Level 2 (severe) - requires substantial support: even with supports in place abnormal responses in social verbal and non verbal interactions, limited initiation in social interactions. Inflexible behaviour, repetitive behaviour that is apparent and interferes with some functioning.
1.2.2.2.3. Level 1 - requires support, difficulty initiating social interactions, may have atypical responses in social interactions, requires supports in place to overcome these barriers. Difficulties with transitioning activities, organizing and planning independently, inflexible behaviour.