An Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intervention/Treatment for Children: Two Case Studies

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder, which has greater implications on vulnerable children than adults and it is therefore crucial to identify signs and symptoms at the earliest opportunity to accommodate for the affected child. Targeted treatment methods, such as social skills training, 1-to-1 tuition, speech therapy and Social Stories and Comic Strip Conversation can then be applied early on, which can then lead to substantial improvements at adulthood. Case studies of two male children, aged 4 and 9 were looked into, to identify their special needs. A potential link between genetic factors and ASD was observed, as the children were related to each other (cousins) and showed similar autistic traits. By applying the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R), observing and communicating with the children and family members, there were clear indications for ASD. The importance of a multidisciplinary system has been suggested to support the easier and quicker identification of ASD.