In recent months, there has been a significant emphasis on addressing autism issues within society. Repeatedly, the discourse has revolved around solutions within the educational system, portraying autism primarily as a behavioral disorder necessitating specific educational approaches. However, there has also been crucial dialogue concerning the social, economic, and institutional support required by families affected by autism. While such support aids families in coping, it does not directly confront autism as a medical condition.
Autism is diagnosed according to criteria outlined in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. It is characterized as a neurodevelopmental disorder based on deficits and impairments in social, emotional, and cognitive behavior. Nevertheless, researchers worldwide are actively seeking biomarkers for autism to facilitate diagnosis. Hence, autism is recognized as a medical-psychiatric/psychological diagnosis within the realm of mental health, rather than being solely an educational concern.
Diagnosis of autism typically involves developmental pediatricians, psychologists, psychiatrists, or neurologists. Speech and language therapists may also contribute to the diagnostic process as part of a multidisciplinary team. Notably, autism cannot be diagnosed by an educational psychologist, as it is not classified as a learning disorder. However, autism may coexist with learning disorders such as dyslexia or dysgraphia, complicating the diagnostic landscape.
While there is an undeniable necessity for a comprehensive educational framework for children with autism, there is also a pressing need for lifelong support and intervention across all stages of life for individuals with autism. Nonetheless, many critical factors influencing the autism experience, from infancy to old age, are related to health and mental health. Consequently, there is an urgent call for a comprehensive autism health policy in Barbados.
Reframing Our Perception of Autism
Conversations surrounding autism predominantly focus on observable behaviors and learning outcomes rather than delving into their underlying causes. Instead of scrutinizing the roots of behavior, efforts often concentrate on mitigating problematic behaviors. However, all human behaviors are intricately linked to the functions of the brain and its development, encompassing various biological elements such as the central nervous system, sensory experiences, neurotransmitters, and hormonal balances, among others. Furthermore, social and emotional factors also play significant roles, themselves influenced by our interaction with the physical and social environment. While medical professionals acknowledge these complexities, the discourse on autism in Barbados primarily revolves around educators and the education system. It is imperative to broaden this conversation to encompass health and medical considerations in autism intervention, care, and management.
