Autism Spectrum Disorders Paper

Autism spectrum disorders are life long and have been found to be prevalent in up to 1% of the adolescent population (Simonoff et al., 2008). Many studies have shown that the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders have increased radically (Vismara & Rogers, 2008). However, there may be many cases not yet reported or diagnosed correctly. The disorder covers a range of individuals with impairments that change from one person to the next. One individual may have difficulty with language communication and another might have more difficulty with repetition. Since ASDs have an early onset, it is important to identify the disorder early so that interventions can be initiated (Simonoff et al., 2008). The disability is life long and treatment is needed
Autism impacts the way a person is able to communicate and interact with others, and has been studied with many different forms of intervention. Bellini (2004) was able to conclude that adolescents with ASD experience anxiety much more than members without ASD. The results point to the social impairments and lower assertion expressed by the adolescents with ASD (Bellini, 2004). Therapies focus on the best form of intervention for the individual, and the most common form is a strict educational that is supplemented with other interventions (Lord, Cook, Leventhal, Amaral, 2000). In this essay, cognitive behavioral therapy, the Early Start Denver Model, and music therapy will be discussed to show the varying forms of treatment available for individuals with autism spectrum disorders. For this particular essay, the focus will be on the treatment of adolescents and young children with ASD. All three therapies have been found to be very effective interventions for adolescents with ASD. Each therapy is unique with a common goal of making the individual more comfortable with interactions and
Vivanti et al. (2014) ran a study on the model in a group setting, where they illustrated, completed book activities, or performed song-based activities. Through those three types of activities, the children could enhance their social, cognitive, and playing skills (Vivanti et al., 2014). While providing the therapy in groups, it was also important for the instructor to engage each child’s individual needs. Vivanti et al. (2014) were able to conclude that working in a community-based setting had a positive impact on the children’s development. The Early Start Denver model is flexible and can be used as individual therapy or group-based