The term spectrum refers to the classification of something in the range, according to its characteristics and magnitude. Children who show similar signs of a medical condition are often categorized in one group. Most of them are really different and thus need different treatment (Volkmar, Fred Sally, Rogers, Rhea and Kevin, 70). There are children who would respond to treatment, but there are those with the emotional capability and strength to conquer situations. All of these children are often classified in the same category when diagnosed.
Children who would have otherwise gotten better end up as underachievers because they are given labels and given special treatment. Each child has different characteristics and abilities that need to be addressed before being labeled (Robison, John, 40). Understanding of spectrum will enable the child live a limitless life because most of the time, labels limit children who have extraordinary strength. The system of labeling children is crippling to those who might be different. Understanding spectrum allows for close psychological analysis of a child before they are subjected to a life of being treated in a particular way. Other solutions might be useful to different children depending on the magnitude of their diagnosis.
As a child development psychologist, knowledge on spectrum disorders can help in the classification of children by their individual strengths and find solutions based on that. Spectrum will facilitate my understanding on the different needs of a child. I will then be able to help children develop individually, using different methods for each, as opposed to using the same method for all the children. I will be enlightened to handle each case as an independent entity, thus effectively helping the children to develop.
Knowledge of the spectrum allows for classification of diagnosis to enable children reach the peak in their developmental potential. It allows for individual attention to a child’s needs, which leads to the discovery in their strengths (Barton, Erin and Beth, 33). The strengths can then be capitalized on to increase chances of success.
Works cited
Volkmar, Fred R, Sally J. Rogers, Rhea Paul, and Kevin A. Pelphrey. Handbook of Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. , 2014. Internet resources
Robison, John E. Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's. New York: Crown Publishers, 2007. Internet resources
Barton, Erin E, and Beth Harn. Educating Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Guide for Teachers, Counselors, and Psychologists. New York: Skyhorse Pub, 2014. Internet resource.
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