The Effects Of Early Intervention

Autism is a developmental disorder; although listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), it is not a mental illness. The effects of having autism on a person can vary based on risk factors to which the individual has been exposed. Risk factors combined with autism can result in comorbid mental illness such as depression. Due to the fact that autism is ‘characterized by difficulty with communication, behavior, social interactions and imaginative play…’ (Casey, 2014, par.14), many opportunities for maladaptive behaviour in an individual with autism can occur. Autism is a spectrum disorder, and no cases present equally; the capabilities of an individual with autism can be different depending on what areas of functioning are the most affected (Casey, 2014). Early intervention can help with behavioural issues and the ability to function alongside neurotypical individuals. In light of recent changes to the Diagnostic …show more content…
As of September 2016, children in the province of Manitoba, Canada faced cuts to early intervention services due to budget restrictions (Kaschor, 2016). John Leggat, CEO and president of St. Amant Autism Services in Manitoba stated: ‘... the research clearly demonstrates that the earlier you can intervene, the more impact you have…’(Kaschor, 2016) Early intervention services help children with high functioning autism (HFA) to navigate their disabilities and learn to communicate. Within the context of the ecological model which focuses on social interactions as being a component to future risk factors, strategies to increase and aid HFA children to communicate and have social relationships is of high importance. Troubling financial cutbacks in government programs and cultural stigma all play a role on whether an HFA child will be able to cope with their future better and avoid potential risk factors prevalent to those with