In the tapestry of neurodiversity, each thread contributes to a unique and beautiful pattern. And this time, we shall delve deeper into the exploration of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a journey that will shed light on the extraordinary resilience, creativity, and challenges experienced by individuals on the spectrum.
Joining us in this enlightening discussion is Mr. Ajay U U, an experienced neuropsychologist and Assistant Professor at Calicut University, Kerala. He will shed light on ASD to unravel the mysteries, debunk myths, and nurture a deeper appreciation for the diverse tapestry of ASD.
So, take a moment to open your heart and mind as we start this insightful interview, for it is through understanding that we can truly create a world where everyone is celebrated for their unique hues.
Goldi Negi: Welcome, Mr. Ajay! I'm delighted to have you here for this insightful interview. Your expertise in health and psychology, particularly in neuropsychology and consumer neuroscience, promises to shed light on the cognitive and behavioral aspects of ASD. Could you please share more about your background, interests, and current work?
Ajay U U: Thank you for the warm welcome! I specialize in neuropsychology and consumer neuroscience. Presently, I'm an assistant professor in the psychology department at a college, and my focus is on teaching and conducting research in the field of neuropsychology.
Goldi Negi: That sounds very interesting. Can you tell us what exactly neuropsychologists do?
Ajay U U: Briefly, we do different assessments to evaluate the relationship between brain functions and mechanisms on one hand and cognition and behavioural control on the other side.
Goldi Negi: I see, and can you also tell us about neurodevelopmental disorders? Please share a few examples as well.
Ajay U U: In simple words, neurodevelopmental disorders are conditions characterized by impairment in cognition, communication, motor skills, and behaviour resulting from abnormal brain development. Neurodevelopmental disorders include Autism spectrum disorders, Intellectual disability (formerly Mental Retardation), specific learning disorders, Tourette's syndrome, etc.
Goldi Negi: The complexities surrounding these disorders indeed offer an intriguing avenue for exploration. Can you explain to our audience what autism spectrum disorder (ASD) entails, and how neuropsychology plays a role in enhancing our comprehension of this condition?
Ajay U U: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by difficulties in social and interpersonal interactions, repetitive and restricted interests and behaviours, and delays in language development. Neuropsychology contributes significantly to our understanding of ASD by investigating various aspects such as intelligence, social cognition, attention, executive function, and praxis that may be associated with the condition.
Goldi Negi: Please tell us more about some of the cognitive and behavioral characteristics associated with autism spectrum disorder.
Ajay U U: While talking about cognitive and behavioral disturbances associated with ASD is a broad area, and the symptoms can vary significantly from person to person, here are some of the common traits associated with ASD.
One, people with ASD often have difficulty with social communication and interaction. They may struggle with understanding and using nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice.
Two, many individuals with ASD display repetitive behaviours, routines, or intense interests in specific topics. These patterns can include repetitive movements (like hand flapping or body rocking), insistence on sameness or routines, and a strong attachment to particular objects or subjects.
Three, because of symptoms similar to the ones I mentioned, those with ASD also suffer from executive functioning and thus their ability to function in school, work, or other areas of life gets significantly affected.
Some other characteristics include making little or inconsistent eye contact, appearing absentminded a lot, becoming very upset by slight changes in their routine, or finding transitions challenging.
Goldi Negi: Before we reach our conclusion, I would like to touch upon the topic of stigma and awareness surrounding autism spectrum disorder. Despite growing understanding, there still exists prejudice and misconceptions about ASD. How do you believe we can combat these challenges and promote greater awareness and acceptance?
Ajay U U: These problems are indeed very prevalent in our society. Stigma against autism has a severe negative impact on the well-being of those battling with ASD. It is a disorder that leaves people initially helpless, no one chooses to be neurodivergent. It is already stressful and exhausting. But with ignorance and stigma, this can be so much more harmful to both mental and physical health for someone with ASD.
This can also impact their social relationships, and leave people with autism feeling shunned or lonely. At the same time, the negative outlook against Autism also led to increased “camouflaging” of autistic traits. Thus, making it difficult to get a timely diagnosis.
We should remember that the stigma is not only found in society but even in the family members of someone with ASD. This becomes a huge hurdle in the treatment and understanding of the issue.
We must reduce the prejudice and stigma; we need to create “autism-friendly” spaces. In media and news, more positive representations of autistic should be included. Education of the public and professionals is another significant factor that can contribute to reducing the stigma and increasing awareness.
Goldi Negi: In today’s times, social media serves as a huge platform for connecting people from all areas of life. So, how can social media and journalism contribute to raising awareness and reducing the stigma associated with autism spectrum disorder?
Ajay U U: Social media provides a supportive space for individuals to openly discuss various aspects of their lives, such as the experience of having or parenting a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Within online communities, people can both offer and seek advice, guidance, and emotional support.
Social media's collaborative environment also facilitates the exchange of coping mechanisms, fostering a sense of hope and alleviating feelings of isolation among individuals. These aspects were evident within the YouTube videos and comments, serving as a testament to the supportive nature of online communities.
Through these platforms, information is also able to travel faster, and when done right, this offers great support to individuals in need and raises awareness of issues like ASD.
Goldi Negi: Lastly, what advice would you give to parents, caregivers, and the general people in terms of supporting and embracing individuals with autism spectrum disorder?
Ajay U U: ASD affects children's social interaction and communication skills, giving it the term "spectrum disorder" as children can fall anywhere along the autism spectrum. As a parent of a child with ASD or developmental delays, initiating treatment promptly is essential. It is crucial to seek help as soon as concerns arise, without waiting for an official diagnosis. Early intervention significantly improves the chances of successful treatment, accelerating the child's development and reducing autism symptoms throughout their life.
There are no set rules on how to care for and communicate with a child with ASD. Patience is a vital virtue in these interactions, as children with ASD may require more time to process information. Adjusting the pace of conversation and tailoring communication methods to their needs can promote understanding and engagement. It's essential not to take it personally if the child doesn't respond as expected, as their directness and difficulty expressing and regulating emotions are common characteristics. Recognizing their limited attention span, especially in communication, can guide you towards alternative ways of spending quality time together, such as engaging in outdoor activities that promote relaxation and a sense of calm.
Caring for a child with ASD provides a unique perspective that can open your eyes to new ways of seeing the world. While challenging at times, finding moments to relax, laugh, and appreciate the remarkable qualities of your child can bring immeasurable rewards to both you and your family. Receiving an ASD diagnosis can be overwhelming, as it shatters the expectation of having a "typical" child. It is crucial to prioritize self-care and emotional well-being as you navigate the journey of caring for your child with special needs. By taking care of yourself, you can be the best parent and advocate for your child, ensuring their overall growth and happiness.
Goldi Negi: Thank you for sharing your valuable insights on understanding autism spectrum disorder through neuropsychological perspectives. Such dedication and efforts are undoubtedly making a difference in the lives of so many people.
We greatly appreciate your time and expertise. We look forward to following your future endeavours in this field. Thank you once again, Mr Ajay!
The journey of individuals with ASD, as well as their families and caregivers, is marked by both triumphs and obstacles. From tireless advocacy efforts to secure support and accommodations to the relentless pursuit of understanding and acceptance, the path is often paved with immense dedication and resilience.
Yet, amidst the trials, there are moments of profound connection, personal growth, and triumph that deserve recognition. The autistic community is a wellspring of creativity, innovation, and insight.
While our understanding of autism continues to evolve, it is important to acknowledge that gaps remain in our knowledge and support systems. Greater awareness, research, and accessible resources are needed to address the various dimensions of ASD comprehensively. By shining a light on both the progress made and the challenges that persist, we can work towards a future where individuals on the spectrum receive the understanding, support, and opportunities they deserve.
