Autism : a case study from an occupational therapy perspective

Abstract

Autism is: "a clinical disorder characterised by qualitative impairment of social interaction, verbal and non verbal communication, imaginative activity, and a markedly restricted repertoire of activities and interests." (Adapted from DSM IV 1994). Children with autism present a unique clinical picture as they manifest a broad spectrum of symptoms. These effect their individual learning styles, their unique problem areas and their individual response to different treatments. Autism thus requires a well-integrated approach of the multi disciplinary team.