Autism spectrum disorders through the life span

Description

This professional text covers every aspect of Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD), from science to services, from the most disabling Kanner's syndrome to the most high-functioning Asperger syndrome, and from birth to old age. The book contains the latest research on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, intervention and support of individuals with ASD, and examines their implications at various stages of life. A wide range of neurological, genetic, psychological, developmental, social, and emotional issues are covered, and the author also includes less accessible information on the diagnosis and treatment of associated psychiatric and medical conditions, the overlap between the ASDs and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and the management of behavioural and forensic problems. The author does not presume existing technical knowledge and the background to new methods of assessment, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, standardized clinical and psychological assessment, and genetic testing, is explained. This book is a resource for working with individuals of all ages who are on the autism spectrum. It contains research into the causes and treatment of the disorder.;Sciences basic to ASD -- Neurology of the superficial structures of the brain -- Cerebellum and deep structures in the forebrain -- Interactions in genes and neurons -- Developmental, social and emotional considerations -- Social orientation, communication and language -- Nonverbal communication, empathy and theory of mind -- Neuropsychology of ASD -- Clinical aspects of ASD -- Autistic syndrome -- Presentation, prevalence, treatment and course of the autism spectrum disorders -- Clinical assessment of the ASDs -- Aetiology of the autism spectrum disorders -- Presentation in infancy and childhood (the pre-school years) -- Presentation of Asperger syndrome in middle childhood -- Presentation of Kanner syndrome in middle childhood -- Presentation of Asperger syndrome in later childhood and adolescence -- Presentation of atypical Asperger syndrome, often with ADHD, in late childhood and adolescence (secondary school and college) -- Presentation and consequences of Asperger syndrome in adulthood.