Can an Autism Hug Machine Help Control Challenging Behaviors of Children on the Spectrum?
Recent Study Suggests Deep Pressure Provided by One Type of Device Can Be Calming Deep pressure has been widely used by occupational therapists who work with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The deep pressure sensation is thought to regulate the sensory system, reducing the symptoms of stress and anxiety of individuals on the spectrum. […]
Labor Shortage Causes Waiting Lists for IDD Services
1 out of 8 Full-Time Direct Support Positions Across the Country Remain Unfilled A new report, titled the “Case for Inclusion” issued by United Cerebral Palsy and the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) depicts a harsh landscape for those in search of intellectual and developmental disability services. The problem at the forefront […]
Methylmercury Chloride Exposure Deteriorates Behaviors and Impacts the Immune System
Mouse Model Study Shows Increased Production of Proinflammatory Cytokines after Exposure New research from Saudi Arabia has investigated the effects of methylmercury chloride (MeHgCl) exposure on BTBR mice. BTBR mice are an inbred mouse strain that exhibit core symptoms of autism-like behaviors. The authors of this new study hypothesized that MeHgCl exposure could be associated […]
Eye Gazing in ASD: Indifference or Avoidance?
New Review Examines the Theory of Hypoactive vs. Hyperactive Amygdala A tendency to avoid eye contact is often an early indicator of autism in young children. Difficulties with eye contact frequently continue through the lifespan, creating challenges for social interactions for people on the spectrum. A new review published in the Journal of Autism and […]
One-third of Autism Caregivers Utilize ABA Programs
Although Controversial, 93% of Parents Have a Favorable View of the Therapy Last month SafeMinds Shares reported on a growing debate surrounding Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) programs. The controversy stems from adults who participated in ABA programs during childhood and view the therapy as an unethical and harmful attempt to conform individuals on the spectrum […]
Exposure to Chemicals During Pregnancy Affects Developing Fetus
New Study Shows the More Chemicals, the Fewer Words Giuseppe Testa, a professor of molecular biology at the Universita Statale in Milan, Italy recently tweeted a fascinating conversation about his newest study which examines the effects of exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals during pregnancy on a child’s language development. Additionally, Professor Testa and his co-authors […]
