Autism disorders are the fastest growing neurodevelopmental disorders of our time. They can occur together with other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Every child with an autism disorder is unique, but what they all have in common are restricted, repetitive behaviours, activities and interests and deficits in social communication and interaction. Autism disorders encompass all domains of functioning and not only the domain of social communication. Some older studies have shown that 70% of children with an autism disorder also have a mental disorder, while more recent studies have suggested the proportion to be 40%. Mental disorders are demonstrated in significantly lower intellectual capabilities and significant deviations in the adjustment skills.
Many therapy approaches are available and they can have a profound impact on the functioning of a child with an autism disorder. The sooner a specific therapy is started, the more successful it is. One of the more successful therapy approaches is teaching children with an autism disorder to communicate by using PECS – a communication system based on exchanging pictures.
Our case study focuses on learning to use PECS and using PECS by a boy with an autism and mental disorder. We have decided to use PECS because it is a widely used method and because there is evidence of its being efficient. We wanted to find out to what extent PECS is suitable for children with autism disorders who also have a moderate mental disorder. The goal of the thesis was to show the use of the PECS method on a child with an autism disorder and a moderate mental disorder and how the PECS method affects undesirable behaviour. Thus, the PECS communication system was used systematically throughout the school year during lessons within the special needs education programme.
The results have shown that the boy has made progress in the domain of communication and in the use of supportive, alternative communication system PECS. He communicates his needs and wishes independently using the symbols.
He forms sentences using three pictures, including adjectives. Using PECS cards he answers the question “WHAT DO YOU WANT?” and his vocabulary has expanded. As a result of improved communication the boy has become calmer and demonstrates a more suitable behaviour.
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