« Previous | Contents |
Listen
ON THE BORDERLINE?
PEOPLE WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES AND/OR AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDERS IN SECURE, FORENSIC AND OTHER SPECIALIST SETTINGS
ANNEX ONE
PEOPLE WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES AND/OR AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDERS IN SECURE, FORENSIC AND OTHER SPECIALIST SETTINGS
Additional information on learning disabilities and Autistic Spectrum Disorder
People with learning disabilities and/or Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) will vary widely in terms of the nature and degree of disability they experience. It is also possible for someone to have both a learning disability and ASD. The following just provides some additional background information to help you think about the adults and children who should be included in the study.
People with learning disabilities People with learning disabilities have a significant, life-long condition that started before adulthood, that affected their development and which means they need help to: Understand information;
Learn skills; and
Cope independently. (From: The same as you? A review of services for people with learning disabilities, Scottish Executive, 2000) Some characteristics associated with people with learning disabilities include: Significantly impaired intellectual ability
Significantly impaired social functioning
The disability has been present from birth (i.e. not acquired in later life for example through a head injury or as a result of substance misuse) (Holland et al, 2002) |
People with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger's syndrome) People with Autistic Spectrum Disorders are often described as having a 'triad' of impairments (Wing, 1996). These include: Difficulty understanding verbal and non-verbal communication
Difficulties with social relationships and understanding social behaviour. As an adult they may be seen as a loner
Ritualistic behaviour or obsessional interests. These may be unusual and the person may want to talk about them a lot. People may also find it difficult to cope with change. |
« Previous | Contents |