ABA 345 - Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders

It has been more than fifty years since the social and communication differences characteristic of autism were first described by Leo Kanner. During this time, research has produced a wealth of knowledge about the complex developmental processes involved in autism. The triad of impairments in social relationships, communication, and behavior and their relationship with the idiosyncratic profile of cognitive strengths and weaknesses will be discussed in this course.  This course will provide a framework for understanding these developmental differences in children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD), and will highlight the heterogeneity of the spectrum. The definitions and critical features of autism spectrum disorders will be delineated.  The learning, behavioral, and social characteristics of autism will be highlighted.  Controversies in the definition, etiology, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders will be reviewed.

Prerequisites & Notes
ABA 280 or permission of instructor.

(Cr: 3)