Autism Research paper
Tamika M. Barnes
Behavioral Science 221-7121
Autism Final Paper
Professor Cathy Taylor
September 10, 2012
Page 1. Autism is a neural development disorder which inhibits the normal growth and development of a child within a social environment. An autistic person has a difficult time communicating socially with people. Autism is caused when synaptic junctions in the brain fail to develop normally due to a chromosomal deficiency. These junctions are responsible for normal cognition and recognition abilities. As they remain underdeveloped in an autistic patient their cognitive processes are also inhibited. My youngest brother was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. My mother noticed the signs early, however the doctors didn’t give a definite diagnosis until then. The doctors thought that he was deaf at one point. The signs were visible within the first year of my brother’s life. He was late to walk, he didn’t talk, and he wasn’t showing the typical of a one year old. He wasn’t reciprocating smiles or responding to his name. All the regular milestones associated with children his age, he was not doing. Again, at the age of three my parents were able to put a name to his condition. My mother said she felt a lot of different emotions when she learned of his condition. As a mother we want to envision our children living normal lives, growing up to do great things. Even though autism is not a death sentence, she knew any sense of normalcy would be difficult for him. Once a child is diagnosed with autism assessments and interventions should begin. The options available should be fully explained to parents of autistic children. Early intervention can help with the developmental and behavioral stages. My mother began therapy for my brother as soon as she was informed of
Behavioral Science 221-7121
Autism Final Paper
Professor Cathy Taylor
September 10, 2012
Page 1. Autism is a neural development disorder which inhibits the normal growth and development of a child within a social environment. An autistic person has a difficult time communicating socially with people. Autism is caused when synaptic junctions in the brain fail to develop normally due to a chromosomal deficiency. These junctions are responsible for normal cognition and recognition abilities. As they remain underdeveloped in an autistic patient their cognitive processes are also inhibited. My youngest brother was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. My mother noticed the signs early, however the doctors didn’t give a definite diagnosis until then. The doctors thought that he was deaf at one point. The signs were visible within the first year of my brother’s life. He was late to walk, he didn’t talk, and he wasn’t showing the typical of a one year old. He wasn’t reciprocating smiles or responding to his name. All the regular milestones associated with children his age, he was not doing. Again, at the age of three my parents were able to put a name to his condition. My mother said she felt a lot of different emotions when she learned of his condition. As a mother we want to envision our children living normal lives, growing up to do great things. Even though autism is not a death sentence, she knew any sense of normalcy would be difficult for him. Once a child is diagnosed with autism assessments and interventions should begin. The options available should be fully explained to parents of autistic children. Early intervention can help with the developmental and behavioral stages. My mother began therapy for my brother as soon as she was informed of
References: Kingsley, Jessica, (2002) Addressing the Challenging Behavior of Children with High Functioning Autism/Asperger Syndrome WIU Library Byrne, J.H. (Series Ed.) & Roediger, (Vol. Ed) Learning and Memory: A Comprehensive reference: Cognitive Psychology. New York: Elsevier Heward, W.L. 2006 edition pg. 268-271 Exceptional Children An Introduction to Special Education Dougherty, Michael J. The Genetics of Autism, www. Actionbioscience.org