Støtte til barn og ungdommer innom autismespekteret : En litteraturstudie

Sammanfattning

Background: The autism spectrum disorder is increasing in our society. Autism is a spectrum of conditions characterized by difficulties in understanding. Symptoms of autism can change with a right support. Aim: The purpose of the study is to use Bronfenbrenner’s theory in order to analyse forms of support for children and young adults on the autism spectrum disorder. I will use Bonfrenbrenner’s ecological system theory in my literature review in order to emphasize on different systems that influence support. Systems include microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, macrosystem and chronosystem. Method: General literature study where the results are based on both quantitative and qualitative research from databases EBSC host, APA psycinfo and APA psycArticles all of which created 9 studies. Results: The results show that more support is needed in school and habilitation centers for children and young adults with autism spectrum diagnosis. An increase in knowledge about the autism spectrum disorder is needed among parents, teachers and personal assistants. The results show that different forms of support help individuals with autism spectrum disorder to develop different skills. With proper communication, follow-up, mapping in behavioural therapy, socialstories and by creating clear circumstances can develop more skills individually. There is support for autism spectrum disorder in schools and kindergarten, but more support is needed. Support from technology has an important role in society. Follow-up for the individuals with autism spectrum disorder needs to start as early as possible. The findings show that with laterfollow-up or no follow-up, the autistic symptoms can re-appear. The result also show that sometimes parents may be influenced by cultural factors, which may prevent them from seeking support. Conclusion: Different forms of support have a developmental effect for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. More forms of support are needed in the society. Individuals with autism diagnose need constant follow-up support to develop skills. Children who received support at an early age developed better than those who received support later.