Living with the Spectrum: Autism and Family Life

Transcription

1 Living with the Spectrum: Autism and Family Life One Approach to Teaching Family Studies Students about Interdisciplinary Care Jennifer S. Reinke, PhD, LAMFT, CFLE University of Wisconsin Stout

2 a cluster of lifelong neurodevelopmental disorders marked by significant qualitative limitations in social interactions, verbal and nonverbal communication, and restricted repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests, and activities (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2000)

3 Background Spectrum disorder (mild - severe) 1 in every 68 births in United States Discovery attributed to Dr. Leo Kanner, 1943 Despite many theories, cause(s) of autism are not known There is no cure for autism (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2000; CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, 2014)

4 If you have met one person with autism, you have met ONE person with autism.

5 Characteristics of Autism Autism core symptoms: Social interaction Qualitative impairment in communication Repetitive behaviors and restricted interests Common co-occurring diagnoses: Intellectual disability Speech/language delays Adaptive skill deficits Attention challenges Hyperactivity/impulsivity (ADHD) Aggressive behaviors Anxiety/depression Seizures Sleep problems (Barbaresi, Katusic, & Voigt, 2006)

6 Alternative Therapy Professionals Social Worker Nutritionist Extended Family Behavioral Therapist Siblings Music Therapist Parents Speech Therapist Care Team Medical Professional Sleep Specialist Psychologist Physical Therapist Special Education Teacher Occupational Therapist Skills Trainer Family Professional Feeding Specialist

7 So What? Highly probable students will engage with individuals and families affected by autism Family professionals must be knowledgeable about the many care team members involved in supporting families affected by autism What is their role? What is my role? What is the family s role?

8 HDFS 370/570: Living with the Spectrum Autism and Family Life Theoretical frameworks False beliefs about autism Impact on family relationships Cultural considerations Ethical considerations Policy issues Implications for family practitioners

9 Small Groups: Case Studies 1) As a group, identify the primary care team members in the scenario 2) Each group member is to assume the role of one of the care team members Take 2 minutes to brainstorm your priorities and desired outcomes 3) Hold a care team meeting! Make sure that each team member s voice is heard Work together to identify a solution that everyone can agree on

10 Small Groups: Debrief What might be rewarding about being a member of an interdisciplinary team? What might be challenging? What are your reactions to this activity? Did it help you further clarify your role as a family professional? Did it further muddy your role as a family professional? How might this activity be similar to or different from a real care team meeting?

11 Does it Work? Expressed deepened appreciation for rewards and challenges in addressing stakeholders interests Demonstrated critical thinking about role as a family professional Expressed confidence in applying an interdisciplinary approach across settings

12 References American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Pervasive developmental disorders. In Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth edition-text revision (DSM-IV-TR). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association, Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network. (2014). Prevalence of autism spectrum disorders among children aged 8 years - Autism and developmental disabilities monitoring network, 14 sites, United States, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report Surveillance Summaries, 63(SS02), Gabovitch, E. M., & Curtin, C. (2009). Family-centered care for children with autism spectrum disorders: A review. Marriage & Family Review, 45(5), doi: /

13 Contact Information Jennifer S. Reinke, PhD, LAMFT, CFLE Assistant Professor University of Wisconsin Stout Human Development and Family Studies Phone: ;