Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Intervention, and Counseling Needs of the Families in Jordan

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one of the most confusing disorders for which not only no exact cause has been identified, but also no definitive cure has been found yet. Autism is a disorder that is usually observed on the child at an early age, affecting various developmental aspects. Its development is abnormal. It shows an imbalance in its social interaction, characterized by repetition of certain behavioral patterns and challenges in verbal and nonverbal communication with others. Over the last few decades, its prevalence showed a dramatic rise; an observation that encouraged many researchers across the globe to try to explore all its aspects from etiology to diagnosis and intervention. Because of the difficulties in teaching children with autism, the families in Jordan encounter many challenges and stresses. This paper discusses the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, treatment, types and the counseling needs of the families in Jordan.