Unit 01: Introduction to autism

The Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism, particularly Unit 01: Introduction to autism, is highly relevant to health and social care as it provides foundational knowledge about autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This unit is designed to educate individuals about the characteristics, behaviours, and challenges associated with autism. Understanding these aspects is crucial for anyone working in health and social care, as it enables them to provide better support and tailored interventions for individuals with autism.

Health and social care professionals often encounter individuals with autism in various settings, including hospitals, care homes, and community services. By completing this unit, professionals gain a deeper understanding of how autism affects communication, social interaction, and behaviour. This knowledge is essential for creating an inclusive environment that considers the unique needs and preferences of individuals with autism, promoting their well-being and ensuring they receive appropriate care.

Moreover, this unit emphasises the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, which can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with autism. Early intervention strategies can help in developing essential skills and reducing the impact of autism on daily life. In summary, the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism, especially Unit 01, is indispensable in health and social care because it equips professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to support and advocate for individuals with autism effectively.

Units and Answers

1. Understand what is meant by ‘autism’.

• 1.1 Describe the following social and communication disorders; autistic spectrum condition, Asperger syndrome, and high-functioning autism (HFA)
• 1.2 Explain how autism can be considered as a spectrum condition
• 1.3 Explain why it is important to recognise that autism is a lifelong condition

2. Know theories that relate to autism

• 2.1 Outline the following theoretical models in relation to identifying autism; Kanner, Asperger, Wing and Gould
• 2.2 Explain how the terms ‘neurodiverse’ and ‘neurotypical’ are used in relation to autism

3. Know how autism is diagnosed

• 3.1 Outline the current guidelines for the diagnosis of autism in the UK
• 3.2 Describe the difficulties surrounding the diagnosis of autism in relation to; formal diagnosis, the range of different diagnoses on the spectrum
• 3.3 Give reasons why people may be reluctant to seek a diagnosis
• 3.4 Explain why it is important for individuals to have a formal diagnosis
• 3.5 State the prevalence of autism in the UK

4. Understand the characteristics that may be present in individuals with autism

• 4.1 Describe the main characteristics found in individuals with autism
• 4.2 Describe how these characteristics can vary from individual to individual
• 4.3 Outline what is meant by the ‘triad of impairments’
• 4.4 Identify positive and negative points of the triad of impairments

5. Know about conditions that commonly co-occur with autism

• 5.1 Explain the following conditions that may cooccur with autism: mental ill-health, learning disability
• 5.2 Describe other conditions that may co-occur with autism
• 5.3 Describe the concerns that can arise from these co-occurring conditions

6. Understand common misconceptions surrounding autism

• 6.1 Describe how attitudes and lack of understanding can compound the difficulties of individuals with autism
• 6.2 Give examples of how autism can be misrepresented in the media
• 6.3 Describe how discrimination against individuals with autism can occur inadvertently in society