Dance movement psychotherapy with an adult with autistic spectrum disorder: An observational single-case study

Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder is a rare condition wherein neural transmission through the VIIIth nerve and auditory brainstem is disrupted with intact peripheral hearing. Most frequently reported symptoms by individuals suffering from such conditions include impaired speech discrimination especially in presence of background noise. The aim of this single case study is to emphasize the effectiveness of channel-free technology as a rehabilitative option and to demonstrate the improvement in speech perception in noise with noise desensitisation training. A 24-year-old male patient reported to the National Institute of Speech and Hearing with the complaint of poor speech comprehension. The audiological profile revealed, bilateral moderate sensorineural hearing loss in pure tone audiometry with poor speech discrimination scores, bilateral ‘A’ type tympanogram with absent acoustic reflexes, good signal to noise ratio in otoacoustic emissions, and absent Auditory Brainstem Response at 95 dBnHL bilaterally suggestive of auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder in both the ears. As a part of rehabilitation, hearing aids with multiple channels and channel-free technology were tried and better speech discrimination scores were obtained with channel-free technology. In order to address poor speech discrimination in presence of noise, noise desensitisation training was given at different Signal to Noise Ratio with channel-free hearing aids and was found to be effective in improving the speech discrimination scores especially in adverse listening conditions. Key words: Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder, Channel free hearing aid, Noise desensitisation.

Download Full-text

Housing Adaptation for Adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder

Open House International ◽

10.1108/ohi-01-2010-b0004 ◽

2010 ◽

Vol 35 (1) ◽

pp. 37-48

Author(s):

Magda Mostafa

Keyword(s):

Autistic Spectrum Disorder ◽

Spectrum Disorder ◽

Repetitive Behaviour ◽

Autistic Spectrum ◽

Housing Projects ◽

Cultural Aspects ◽

Model Variant ◽

Housing Services ◽

Physical Access

Autistic Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder estimated to inflict 1 in every 150 children, regardless of socio-cultural aspects, with a four to one prevalence in males over females, (ADDM, 2007). It involves a complex sensory perceptual model, variant from that of the typical individual. It manifests itself in the form of repetitive behaviour, lack of social skills and communication delays and challenges. Being a life-long infliction, individuals with autism require a comprehensive range of specialized support services, including residential, from childhood to adulthood. Housing services for special needs, in general, conventionally deal with issues of physical access. The provisions required for developmentally challenged individuals, such as those with autism are rarely considered. This paper aims to provide a precedent to help guide the adaptation process in the case of group residential accommodation for autistic adults in mass housing projects. After a brief examination of the available literature in the field, a case study will be presented, illustrating design criteria developed for adapting housing for autistic use.

Download Full-text