Applied Behavior
Analysis
BY FUTURE WISE EDUCATION
Module 2.
Overview of Common Special
Educational Needs (SEN)
Conditions.
Autism Spectrum
Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a
developmental disability caused by differences
in the brain. People with ASD often have
problems with social communication and
interaction, and restricted or repetitive
behaviors or interests.
Causes of Autism
The exact cause of ASD is unknown, but it is believed
to result from a combination of genetic and
environmental factors. It is not caused by vaccines,
poor parenting, or external influences.
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HISTORY OF AUTISM DISORDER
1908
• The word autism is used by Eugen Bleuler to describe a subset of schizophrenic patients who were especially withdrawn and self-
absorbed.
1943
• American child psychiatrist Leo Kanner, M.D., publishes a paper describing 11 children who were highly intelligent but displayed "a
powerful desire for aloneness" He later names their condition "early infantile autism."
1944
• A German scientist named Hans Asperger describes a "milder" form of autism now known as Asperger's Syndrome.
1967
• Psychologist Bruno Bettelheim popularizes the term "refrigerator mothers,"caused autism by not loving their children enough.
"Infantile autism" is listed in DSM for the first time
1988
• The movie Rain Man is released – improved public awareness on autism
2007
• Light it Up Blue was adopted by the United Nations
2013
• The DSM-5 folds all subcategories of the condition into one umbrella diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Assessment Tools
● The child Autism Rating Scale (CARS)
● The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS)
● Autism Detection in Early Childhood (ADEC)
● The Autism Diagnostic interview- revised (ADI-R)
● The Social communication Questionnaire(SCQ)
● Ages and stages questionnaire (ASQ)
● Parent’s evaluation of development status (PECS)
● Modified checklist for autism in toddlers (M-CHAT)
● Screening Tool for Autism in Toddlers and young children (STAT)
Learning Disabilities
Learning Disability
A learning disability is a neurological condition that affects an individual’s ability to acquire, process, store,
or use information effectively. These disabilities are not related to intelligence or motivation but result
from differences in how the brain processes information.
Learning disabilities are lifelong conditions that can impact various areas, such as reading, writing, math,
communication, or social skills. Early identification and intervention are crucial for managing these
challenges effectively.
A learning disability is a problem that makes it harder for someone to learn certain skills, like reading,
writing, math, or understanding information. It doesn’t mean the person isn’t smart; their brain just works
differently, and they may need extra help or different ways of learning.
Dyslexia: Affects reading, writing, and spelling.
Symptoms:
● Difficulty recognizing letters or words.
● Challenges with reading fluency and
comprehension.
● Poor spelling and writing skills.
Dyscalculia: Impairs the ability to understand and
perform mathematical tasks.
Symptoms:
● Difficulty understanding numbers and symbols.
● Challenges with basic arithmetic operations.
● Problems with time management and spatial
reasoning.
Dysgraphia: Affects writing abilities, including
handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
Symptoms:
● Poor handwriting and fine motor coordination.
● Difficulty organizing thoughts on paper.
● Challenges with spelling and sentence structure.
Dyspraxia: Affects nonverbal skills like spatial
awareness, motor skills, and social interactions.
Symptoms:
● Difficulty reading body language and social cues.
● Poor coordination and fine motor skills.
● Strong verbal skills but struggles with abstract
concepts.
Attention Deficit
Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADHD)
What is ADHD?
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a
neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s
ability to focus, control impulses, and regulate activity
levels. It often begins in childhood and can continue into
adulthood. People with ADHD may struggle with
organization, completing tasks, or sitting still for extended
periods. Although ADHD can't be cured, it can be
successfully managed and some symptoms may improve as
the child ages.
Signs of ADHD
1. Inattention
● Trouble focusing on tasks or activities.
● Frequently makes careless mistakes.
● Often forgetful or loses things.
● Difficulty following instructions or staying organized.
● Appears not to listen when spoken to directly.
2. Hyperactivity
● Fidgeting or tapping hands and feet.
● Difficulty staying seated when expected.
● Excessive talking or difficulty playing quietly.
● Constantly on the move, as if "driven by a motor."
3. Impulsivity
● Interrupting or intruding on others' conversations or games.
● Difficulty waiting for their turn.
● Acting without thinking about consequences.
Intellectual Disabilities (ID) & Down Syndrome
Conditions affecting cognitive functioning, adaptive skills, and overall
learning ability.
Key Characteristics:
Slower cognitive development and learning pace
Difficulty with problem-solving and abstract concepts
Challenges with daily living skills and independence
Social strengths – friendly and eager to interact
Challenges in the Classroom:
Struggles with complex instructions and abstract thinking
Needs extra time and support for learning new concepts
May require life skills and vocational training
Low frustration tolerance in difficult tasks
Strategies for Support:
Use hands-on, experiential learning methods
Provide visual schedules and clear routines
Teach practical life skills and social skills
Break down tasks into small, manageable steps
Speech & Language Disorders
Conditions that affect speech production, language comprehension, and communication.
Key Characteristics:
Delayed speech development or difficulty pronouncing words
Trouble understanding and following verbal instructions
Limited vocabulary and sentence formation
Struggles with expressing thoughts clearly
Challenges in the Classroom:
Difficulty answering questions and participating in discussions
Frustration when expressing needs or thoughts
Struggles with reading comprehension and written expression
Avoidance of verbal tasks
Strategies for Support:
Use visual cues and gestures to support communication
Encourage peer interactions in structured activities
Provide alternative communication methods (AAC, sign language, PECS)
Give extra processing time for responses