Shaping ASD Pathways: Early PT vs. Late Support for Neurodiversity

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one of a several neurodevelopmental disorders. characterized by impaired social and communicative functioning, as well as repetitive and stereotypical patterns of behaviour and interests. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and restricted or repetitive behaviours and interests [1]. ASD affects throughout an individual’s lifespan and has a very unique clinical picture due to its associated symptoms, which include hyposensitive or hypersensitive, hyperactivity, concentration and behaviour issues, and emotional, sleep, and mood abnormalities [2]. In the context of ASD, neurodiversity acknowledges that individuals on the autism spectrum have unique strengths, abilities, and ways of perceiving and interacting with the world, which are valuable and should be nurtured and supported.The DSM-5 criteria for ASD include persistent deficits in social communication and interaction, and restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities.