ART THERAPY AND AUTISM
Abstract
Autism is a developmental condition that affects social interaction and
behavior in human beings. The condition falls under a wider group
known autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There are some diagnostic
criteria in DSM-5 for ASD [1]; the pathognomonic symptoms of the
disease revolve around impairment in social communication, and
behaviors that are restrictive or repetitive in nature. Psychiatrist
Lorna Wing proposed a central triad of symptoms, which can be seen
in Fig. 1 [2,3]. It should be noted that social imagination refers to an
autistic person's inability to predict and understand the behaviors of
people around them, rather than a lack of imagination as a whole.
The condition can be present from birth or develop due to environmental
factors or other medical causes. Elements such as genetics, as well as
psychological and neurological development, may also play a key role
in the condition [4].
Although there is no cure for ASD, there are some strategies that can
be used to help aid an individual with autism to grow and achieve the
most out of their lives. One of these approaches is the use of art therapy.
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References
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