Language First Learning Library

Course description: Autism Spectrum Disorder is a behaviorally defined disorder that includes consideration of symptoms that overlap with language and communication risk factors that may be heightened in DHH children. Presenters will discuss autism and deafness that includes subtopics such as diagnostic issues in women and girls, and DHH children who may present with characteristics of autism. We will provide information and guidance on working with DHH children with complex medical, developmental and social histories that require a highly tailored intervention plan. Throughout the years of our clinical work we have recognized common barriers to accessing assessments and/or diagnostic overshadowing and receiving appropriate treatments.

Agenda:

5 minutes: Introduction and our training experience 

15 minutes: ASD as a stand alone diagnosis that should be considered independent from other clinical syndromes

20 minutes: Diagnostic overshadowing and common barriers to appropriate and accessible assessment services 

35 minutes: Subgroups of autism spectrum disorders (e.g., girls on spectrum, DHH patients with history of adoption, etc.) 

15 minutes: Long-term repercussions of misdiagnosis; protective and risk factors 

15 minutes: Resources and guidance for clinicians and professionals 

Learner outcomes:

Participants will be able to:

1. Explain the complexities involved in misdiagnosing deaf and hard of hearing children who present with concerns for autism spectrum disorder

2. State resources and common barriers to families with DHH children with autism to getting services

3. Consider cases that contain multiple layers and how to best advocate for those individuals with resources they may have in their area