Should Autism Spectrum Conditions Be Characterised in a More Positive Way in Our Modern World?

Abstract

In a special issue that focuses on complex presentations related to Autism, we ask the question in this editorial whether an Autism Spectrum Condition without complexity is a disorder, or whether it represents human diversity? Much research into Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASCs) over the years has focused on comparisons between neuro-typical people and people with Autism Spectrum Conditions. These comparisons have tended to draw attention to 'deficits' in cognitive abilities and descriptions of behaviours that are characterised as unwanted. Not surprisingly, this is reflected in the classification systems from the World Health Organisation and the American Psychiatric Association. Public opinion about ASC may be influenced by presentations in the media of those with ASC who also have intellectual disability. Given that diagnostic systems are intended to help us better understand conditions in order to seek improved outcomes, we propose a more constructive approach to descriptions that uses more positive language, and balances descriptions of deficits with research finding of strengths and differences. We propose that this will be more helpful to individuals on the Autism Spectrum, both in terms of individual self-view, but also in terms of how society views Autism Spectrum Conditions more positively. Commentary has also been made on guidance that has been adjusted for people with ASC in relation to the current COVID-19 pandemic.

How is COVID-19 pandemic impacting mental health of children and adolescents?

“…Several articles expressed concerns about food nutrition and physical activity for children and adolescents. Different articles argued that schools are the primary source of consistent daily caloric intake and addressed concerns about children's nutritional needs [ 2 , [21] , [22] , [23] , [24] , [25] , [26] ].…”

“…Many authors were concerned about children suffering or witnessing domestic violence or sexual abuse [ 21 , 25 , 33 , [38] , [39] , [40] ]. Some argued that the in-home scenario produced by the pandemic could erupt to those abuses [ 21 , 22 , 26 , 35 , 38 ].…”

“…It is still not yet clear how the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences - social distancing, school closures, lockdown - will affect psychiatric disorders' features including symptom severity, relapses, need for increased frequency of assistance, and intensity of mental healthcare [ 41 ]. Reviewed literature exemplifies mental health outcomes of the pandemic mainly with disorders like PTSD [ 26 , 34 , 44 ], eating disorders [ 45 ], Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) [ [25] , [26] , [27] , [28] , 46 ]. Individuals with PTSD may experience exacerbations of their symptoms in the new crisis scenario [ 34 ], while adolescents with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa may be prevented from getting meal supervision and have their weight control affected [ 45 ].…”

“…Individuals with PTSD may experience exacerbations of their symptoms in the new crisis scenario [ 34 ], while adolescents with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa may be prevented from getting meal supervision and have their weight control affected [ 45 ]. Moreover, children with neurodevelopmental disorders, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) might struggle with the lack of structure and routine caused by the pandemic, what may impact mental health [ 25 , 27 , 28 ]. In fact, one original study measured children's ADHD behaviors during the COVID-19 outbreak and found them worse compared with their normal state, showing increased irritability and more challenging behaviors.…”

“…In fact, one original study measured children's ADHD behaviors during the COVID-19 outbreak and found them worse compared with their normal state, showing increased irritability and more challenging behaviors. However, children and adolescents that suffer from social anxiety might benefit from the reduction of face to face interactions [ 25 , 46 ]. These findings might support evidence (51) of the effectiveness of telepsychiatry for ADHD and ASC assessment and management, although results in that matter vary [ 26 ].…”