Causes of Fecal Smearing in Autism

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Fecal smearing, also known as scatolia, is one of the most distressing behaviors parents of autistic children may encounter. While it can feel overwhelming and isolating, it is more common than many families realize, and there are effective strategies to address it. Understanding the underlying causes is the first step. Why Fecal Smearing Occurs Fecal […]

Autism Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria and Autism

Two Treetop ABA therapists working one-on-one with a child

Rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) refers to intense emotional pain triggered by perceived rejection, criticism, or failure. While not unique to autism, many autistic individuals experience heightened sensitivity to rejection due to years of social difficulty and misunderstanding. Why RSD Is Common in Autism Repeated social rejection throughout development creates heightened sensitivity Difficulty reading social cues […]

Can Animals Have Autism

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Animals cannot be diagnosed with autism because autism is defined as a human condition. However, researchers have observed autism-like behaviors in various animal species, and some animal models are used in autism research. Animals Used in Autism Research Mice: Genetically modified mice with mutations linked to human autism show reduced social interaction, repetitive behaviors, and […]

What Is Broad Spectrum Autism

Treetop therapist during play-based ABA session with child

“Broad spectrum autism” is an informal term sometimes used to describe the wide range of presentations within autism spectrum disorder. It is not a formal diagnostic category but reflects the reality that autism looks very different from person to person. What It Typically Refers To When people use “broad spectrum,” they may mean that a […]

Is Visual Stimming Always Autism Related

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Visual stimming, self-stimulatory behaviors involving the visual sense, is commonly associated with autism but is not exclusive to it. Many people, including neurotypical individuals, engage in visual stimming behaviors to some degree. Visual Stimming Beyond Autism Neurotypical people may watch fires, flowing water, or screensavers for calming effects Children without autism may wave fingers in […]

ABA Therapy Techniques for Nonverbal Children 9a9ad

Treetop therapist during play-based ABA session with child

ABA therapy is highly effective for nonverbal children with autism, focusing on building functional communication through whatever modality works best for each child. Being nonverbal does not mean a child cannot communicate. Communication Approaches PECS: Picture Exchange Communication System teaches children to exchange picture cards for desired items, building from simple requests to complex sentences […]

Etiology of Asd

Treetop therapist during play-based ABA session with child

The etiology of autism spectrum disorder encompasses the biological, genetic, and environmental factors that contribute to its development. Understanding etiology is important for prevention research, early detection, and developing targeted interventions. Genetic Etiology Genetics account for the majority of autism risk. Both common genetic variants (each contributing small risk) and rare variants (contributing larger risk […]