[Self-injurious-behavior in children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities]

Autism - A Comprehensive Array of Prominent Signs and Symptoms

BACKGROUND

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a multifaceted neurodevelopmental condition characterized by multiple psychological and physiological impairments in young children. According to the recent reports, 1 out of every 58 newly-born children is suffering from autism. The aetiology of the disorder is complex and poorly understood, hindering the adaptation of targeted and effective therapies. There are no well- established diagnostic biomarkers for autism. Hence the analysis of symptoms by the pediatricians plays a critical role in the early intervention.

METHODS

In the present report, we have emphasized 24 behavioral, psychological and clinical symptoms of autism.

RESULTS

Impaired social interaction, restrictive and narrow interests, anxiety, depression; aggressive, repetitive, rigid and self-injurious behavior, lack of consistency, short attention span, fear, shyness and phobias, hypersensitivity and rapid mood alterations, high level of food and toy selectivity; inability to establish friendships or follow the instructions; fascination by round spinning objects and eating non-food materials are common psychological characteristics of autism. Speech or hearing impairments, poor cognitive function, gastrointestinal problems, weak immunity, disturbed sleep and circadian rhythms, weak motor neuromuscular interaction, lower level of serotonin and neurotransmitters, headache and body pain are common physiological symptoms.

CONCLUSION

A variable qualitative and quantitative impact of this wide range of symptoms is perceived in each autistic individual, making him/her distinct, incomparable and exceptional. Selection and application of highly personalized medical and psychological therapies are therefore recommended for the management and treatment of autism.

The relationship between deliberate self-harm behavior, body dissatisfaction, and suicide in adolescents: current concepts

Deliberate self-harm (DSH) is a common though often hidden condition in children and adolescents that may result in suicide. This discussion covers several aspects of DSH including its prevalence, etiology, and management. The relationships of DSH to body dissatisfaction and suicide are specifically considered. Even though most cases of DSH do not end in overt suicide, DSH reflects that potential underlying psychological pathophysiology, and likelihood of eventual death from self-murder, cannot always be predicted or prevented. It is important to take all acts of DSH as serious, and to offer comprehensive management to prevent future acts of DSH and potential suicide.

[Reducing self-injurious behaviour through functional communication training--a single case study]

Carr and Durand (1977) postulated for the first time that self-injurious and aggressive behaviour can be reduced in individuals with intellectual impairment by teaching them communication responses. Meanwhile, primarily in the Anglo-American linguistic area, a number of publications exist that address the topic of Functional Communication Training. Conducted in this single case study were a preference assessment to identify edible and material reinforcers, and an experimental functional analysis to document the functions of the self-injurious behaviour. In addition, the efficacy of Functional Communication Training was assessed within an ABAB design. The results underscore the importance of functional assessment, which, within the intervention discussed, led to a significant reduction of self-injurious behaviour.