2.1 Outline the following theoretical models in relation to identifying autism; Kanner, Asperger, Wing and Gould

This guide will help you with answers for NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism 2.1 Outline the following theoretical models in relation to identifying autism; Kanner, Asperger, Wing and Gould.

In the field of understanding autism, several key theoretical models have contributed to the identification and understanding of the condition. This section outlines the contributions made by Leo Kanner, Hans Asperger, and the collaborative work of Lorna Wing and Judith Gould. These models have significantly shaped how we recognise and support individuals on the autism spectrum.

Kanner’s Model

Introduction to Leo Kanner

Leo Kanner, an Austrian-American psychiatrist, is one of the earliest figures to describe autism. In 1943, he published a seminal paper that laid the foundation for diagnosing autism.

Key Features of Kanner’s Model

Kanner’s description focused on a specific set of characteristics observed in children. He identified:

• Social Withdrawal: Children with autism seemed more interested in objects than people.
• Language Difficulties: They exhibited delayed language development and unusual patterns of speech.
• Repetitive Behaviours: He noted stereotyped movements and an attachment to routines and rituals.

Impact on Diagnosis

Kanner’s work provided a clear framework for identifying autism based on observable behaviours. His criteria formed the basis for early autism diagnosis and still influence contemporary diagnostic practices.

Asperger’s Model

Introduction to Hans Asperger

Hans Asperger, an Austrian paediatrician, worked around the same period as Kanner but published his findings later. Asperger’s work focused on a group of children who exhibited milder symptoms compared to those Kanner described.

Key Features of Asperger’s Model

Asperger identified:

• Social Interaction Challenges: Similar to Kanner’s observations, children had difficulties in social interactions but were often able to articulate their thoughts clearly.
• Normal to High Intelligence: These children often had average or above-average intelligence and displayed specific areas of exceptional skill.
• Clumsiness and Coordination Issues: Asperger noted motor coordination difficulties, which were not a focus in Kanner’s descriptions.

Impact on Diagnosis

The recognition of Asperger’s model led to the identification of what was later called Asperger’s Syndrome. This expanded the understanding of autism to include individuals with less severe symptoms, who nonetheless faced significant social challenges.

Wing and Gould’s Model

Introduction to Lorna Wing and Judith Gould

British psychiatrists Lorna Wing and Judith Gould made significant contributions in the late 20th century. They proposed a more inclusive and broad spectrum approach to understanding autism.

Key Features of Wing and Gould’s Model

Their model introduced:

• Autistic Spectrum: Wing and Gould proposed that autism should be viewed as a spectrum of conditions rather than a single disorder.
• Triad of Impairments: They identified three core areas of difficulty:
• Social Interaction: Impaired social skills and difficulties with social relationships.
• Communication: Challenges in both verbal and non-verbal communication.
• Imagination: Limited imaginative play and difficulty with abstract concepts.

Impact on Diagnosis

The idea of the autistic spectrum revolutionised the way autism is understood and diagnosed. It recognised the diversity of symptoms and behaviours, allowing for a more personalised approach to support.

Comparative Analysis

Let’s break down the features of each model to feature their distinctions and commonalities.

Common Themes

• Social Interaction: All four models feature difficulties in social interactions as a core feature of autism.
• Communication: Both Kanner and Wing and Gould focus heavily on communication difficulties, though Asperger noted that verbal communication could be relatively intact.

Differences

• Severity: Kanner’s model focused on more severe forms of autism, while Asperger described individuals with milder symptoms.
• Spectrum Concept: Wing and Gould introduced the idea of autism as a spectrum, which was a significant shift from the more rigid categories defined by Kanner and Asperger.

Practical Implications for Support Workers

As a support worker, understanding these theoretical models helps in several ways:

• Tailored Support: Recognise that autism affects each individual differently. What works for one person might not work for another.
• Holistic Perspective: Use the concept of the spectrum to provide comprehensive support that considers all aspects of an individual’s difficulties.
• Communication Strategies: Develop communication methods suited to each individual’s needs, whether they have severe language impairments or milder difficulties.

Example answers for unit 2.1 Outline the following theoretical models in relation to identifying autism; Kanner, Asperger, Wing and Gould

Example 1:
Leo Kanner was the first to describe what we now know as autism. He observed that children with autism were often more interested in objects than in people. They had significant language delays and used speech in unusual ways. These children also displayed repetitive behaviours like hand-flapping and an insistence on routines. Kanner’s work was key because it provided a clear framework for diagnosing autism based on these observable behaviours.

Example 2:
Hans Asperger described a different group of children who had difficulties with social interactions but generally did well in verbal communication. These children often had normal to high intelligence and could be quite skilled in specific areas like mathematics or music. However, they struggled with motor coordination, appearing clumsy. Asperger’s work led to the identification of what was later known as Asperger’s Syndrome, expanding the understanding of autism to include those with milder symptoms.

Example 3:
Lorna Wing and Judith Gould introduced the concept of the autistic spectrum. They identified three key areas of difficulty: social interaction, communication, and imagination. This triad of impairments helped to show that autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Their model allowed for more varied and individualised approaches to diagnosis and support, recognising that people with autism can have a wide range of symptoms and needs.

Example 4:
Comparing these models, it’s clear that social interaction difficulties are a common theme across all. Kanner focused on more severe forms, with significant language delays and repetitive behaviours. Asperger’s model included children who had strong verbal skills but struggled with social interactions and motor skills. Wing and Gould’s spectrum model unified these ideas, recognising the diversity within autism. This makes their approach more flexible and inclusive, allowing for more personalised support strategies.

Example 5:
As a support worker, understanding these models helps me tailor my approach for each individual I support. For example, if I’m working with someone who has severe language difficulties and repetitive behaviours, I might refer to Kanner’s model for strategies. On the other hand, if I’m supporting someone with good verbal skills but poor motor coordination and social difficulties, Asperger’s findings would be more relevant. Wing and Gould’s model reminds me to consider the wide range of symptoms and to provide support that addresses all areas of difficulty.

Example 6:
These theoretical models have practical implications in my daily work. For instance, the concept of the autistic spectrum from Wing and Gould encourages me to look at each person’s unique challenges and strengths. I can develop more effective communication strategies tailored to their needs, whether they have severe language impairments or are highly articulate but struggle with social cues. Understanding these models helps me provide better, more individualised support, improving the quality of life for the people I work with.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the theoretical models of Kanner, Asperger, Wing, and Gould is important in identifying and supporting individuals with autism. Each model offers valuable insights that collectively improve our approach to diagnosis and care. By integrating these perspectives, support workers can offer more effective, personalised support to individuals on the autism spectrum.