PSYC 1135 - Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the history of diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorders and an overview of how the disorder is diagnosed today.
2. Understand the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders across time and cite potential reasons for perception of an “autism epidemic”.
3. Analyze the myths and stereotypes of Autism and the controversy over “neurodiversity vs. disability”.
4. Understand the defining features of Autism Spectrum Disorder in the social, communicational, and behavioral domains and other frequently associated characteristics and co-existing neurological and medical conditions.
5. Describe the continuum of Autism Spectrum Disorders and diversity within the spectrum, including the range of characteristics, functioning, intellectual abilities, strengths, and unique learning needs that may be present.
6. Understand how differences in thinking can facilitate differences in behavior and how behavior is often a function of communication.
7. Understand early developmental warning signs of Autism Spectrum Disorders in comparison to “typical” development and the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.
8. Understand commonly used screening and assessment tools to identify individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
9. Evaluate different theories related to potential causes of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
10. Understand “evidence-based practice” and apply this to the critical evaluation of different approaches to treating Autism Spectrum Disorders.
11. Understand the experience of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in the lives of families throughout the lifespan (including common family dynamics and sibling and caregiver challenges).

1. History of Autism Spectrum Disorders
2. Diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorders and the range of characteristics and comorbid conditions that may be present
3. Early developmental warning signs and screening and assessment tools used to identify Autism Spectrum Disorders
4. Theories and research related to the etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorders
5. Evidence-based treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorders and evaluation of the efficacy of alternative methodologies
6. Family dynamics related to Autism Spectrum Disorders
7. Neurodiversity