CDC recently published data revealing that the prevalence of Autism has increased dramatically since 2018. The Data was gathered from 11 communities across the United States & estimated that 1 in 36 (2.8%) children have been diagnosed with Autism, a 22% increase from 2.3% in 2018.
What is ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder)
ASD is a neuro- disorder meaning it impacts how the brain functions. The signs are not always obvious, and infarct can vary from one autistic person to another. However, core features of ASD generally involve difficulty with socializing, problems with sensory processing, and repetitive behavior such as flapping hands.
Families impacted
A wide range of families struggle to find effective support. Take, for instance, an African American boy we’ll call Tom for this article’s sake. Tom is adopted by his two parents -African American dad and Caucasian mom. Tom has difficulty controlling his emotions, staying focused, and managing his impulse control. His parents are in a disagreement as to how best to support Tom – with the father believing that he needs more structure and discipline while the mother believes that he lacks emotional regulation skills. Tom believes his father is too stringent and scared of expressing himself.
Tom’s example just serves to illustrate the complexity in attempting to provide suitable support for kids with Autism. Finding the most efficacious method of producing a positive effect on their life necessitates judicious contemplation, sensitivity, perseverance, and experimentation.
Support and Treatment
ASD doesn’t have to be a source of distress for families. Nowadays, there is ABA, family therapy, and other treatments that can help to make it easier. The therapist and families will often work collaboratively to find the right interventional approach that best fits their needs. For those unfamiliar with ABA, it is a evidence-based therapy that helps to reduce problematic behaviors and increase adaptive behaviors.
When we say problematic behavior, we generally mean any behavior that causes the child to harm themselves. It could be anything from aggression, self-injury, or throwing type-writer at the teacher. As for adaptive behavior, these are positive behaviors that help the child be more successful in their environment. This could range from the ability to go to the grocery alone and order what they want to being able to focus and do their homework without disruption.
Treatment centers
So where do you get ABA? Well, before you can get ABA for a child, you want to ensure you’ll be attended by a certified behavior analyst. The behavior analyst will professionally analyze your child’s behavior, after which a team of board-certified applied behavior analysts (BCBAs) will devise an individualized plan to help your child. There’s nothing to be worried about when it comes to getting ABA for your child, as it’s been used on a wide variety of children with success. You can even find a provider near you and start the process.
Here in Nevada, Nevada Autism Center has garnered unparalleled trust from countless parents due to their distinguished team of Behavior Analysts , who are well-equipped and experienced to assist your child with behavioral issues.
