Pervasive developmental disorder is a group of
disorders that result in delay of development of socialisation and communication
skills. There is no specific cure for this disorder. Specialised tailor made
programs give very good results. Read on to know more on the treatment options.
Pervasive developmental disorder refers to a group of
disorders, symptoms of which include delays in the development of socialisation
and communication skills. Although this disorder may come to light anytime up
to the age of three years in a child, in many children its symptoms appear as
early as infancy.
For treating pervasive
developmental disorder there are a number of treatment options available. These
include therapy, specialised education, social support, and medications.
Instead of using these treatment options in isolation most doctors use a
combination of these to meet the specific needs of a child.
Types of Pervasive
Developmental Disorder
Autism
is the most common type of pervasive developmental disorder. Its symptoms
include impaired social interaction, communication skills and a limited range
of activities and interests. Other types of pervasive developmental disorder
include:
Although all these conditions have more or less the same symptoms,
they differ in terms of when the symptoms start, how severe they are, how fast
they appear and its exact nature.
Treatment for
Pervasive Developmental Disorder
There is no single permanent cure for pervasive
developmental disorder. However, most people suffering from this condition respond
extremely well to specialised, structured programs made to suit their specific
needs. Another important factor is timely treatment- early treatment is very
essential to stimulate development in such children.
Before deciding in on any one treatment option parents of a
child suffering from this disorder must gather all information regarding the
treatment options available to them. Internet is a storehouse of information
which can be effectively used to learn about this disorder. Participating in
online forums is another channel to get to know and meet other people who may
be already managing this disorder. There are many specialised schools with
skilled teachers equipped to handle students suffering from this condition. It
would be worthwhile to visit such schools to ascertain the kind of educational
program and support it offers for children with special needs.
Treatment for this disorder is prescribed based upon the
severity of symptoms and the special needs of a child. Some of the options that
are available to treat pervasive developmental disorder include:
- Therapy
- Social support
- Specialised education
- Medication
Early education is one of the simplest and easiest options
available to majority of such children to help them cope with the condition and
at the same time learn new skills. The goals of most educational programs are
to help a child overcome some of the severe symptoms of this disorder. For
example in children with speech problem the programs will concentrate on
teaching them skills which will engage and motivate them to talk, interact,
play, learn, and care for some of their basic needs. Most experts agree that behavioural
intervention or structured teaching of skills is the most effective way of
treating a person suffering from pervasive developmental disorder.
It is best for children suffering from this condition to go
in for early treatment. Specialised educational programs and support services
if introduced at the initial stage itself can have an immense impact on the
child suffering from this disorder. This disorder is not fatal or life
threatening. It has no bearing on normal life expectancy. Timely intervention
and support from caregivers can go a long way in children suffering from this
disorder cope with its symptoms.
