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Co-occurring Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a spectrum complex disorders characterized (in varying degrees) by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors. ASD is a pervasive developmental disorder that delays the development of basic skills, including the ability to socialize, communicate and develop independent living skills. The exact cause of ASD isn’t known, but research suggests genetics and environment play important roles. Boys are more likely to be diagnosed with ASD than girls, however, there’s currently a debate regarding the under diagnosis of girls on the spectrum due to their higher rate of rule compliance.

co-occurring autism spectrum disorder

Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), there are two types of main behaviors: “restricted/repetitive behaviors” and “social communication/interaction behaviors.”

Restrictive/repetitive actions may include:

  • check_mark Repeating certain actions or displaying unusual behaviors
  • check_mark Having overly focused interests, such as moving objects or parts of objects
  • check_mark Having a constant, intense interest in certain areas of interest

Social communication/interaction behaviors may include:

  • check_mark Getting upset by a slight change in a routine or being in a new or overly stimulating setting
  • check_mark Making little or inconsistent eye contact
  • check_mark Tending to look at and listen to people less often
  • check_mark Rarely sharing enjoyment of objects or activities by pointing or showing things to others
  • check_mark Responding in an unusual way when others show anger, distress, or affection
  • check_mark Failing to, or being slow to, respond to someone calling their name or other verbal attempts
  • check_mark Having difficulties with the back and forth of conversations
  • check_mark Talking at length about favorite subjects without noticing that others are not interested or without giving others a chance to respond
  • check_mark Repeating words or phrases that they hear, a behavior called echolalia
  • check_mark Using words that seem odd, out of place, or have a special meaning known only to those familiar with that person’s way of communicating
  • check_mark Having facial expressions, movements, and gestures that don’t align with what’s being said
  • check_mark Having an unusual tone of voice that may sound singsong or flat and robot-like
  • check_mark Having trouble understanding another person’s point of view or being unable to predict or understand other people’s actions.

How We Treat Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Early treatment and proper care can improve a person’s symptoms and ability to function and reduce difficulties as they learn new skills. The wide range of issues facing those “on the spectrum” means that there’s no single best treatment for ASD. Working closely with a doctor or healthcare professional is an important part of finding the right treatment program. Pasadena Villa has experienced therapists and counseling staff that leverage cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and experiential therapy while utilizing our Social Integration ModelTM, which offers relevant, real-time life strategies working towards independence.

To learn more about our treatment program for co-occurring autism spectrum disorder (ASD), check out our Locations Page to find the location closest to you.

Locations