|
FASD is characterized by primary neurobehavioural symptoms, which are permanent, as well as secondary and tertiary characteristics that are often preventable and can be changed. (Diane Malbin’s concept of Tertiary Characteristics compares to Dr. Anne Streissguth’s work on Secondary Disabilities.)
Primary Symptoms
These symptoms reflect how the brain works. Some primary neurobehavioural symptoms of FASD include:
- Learning disabilities
- Slow auditory processing
- Slow cognitive processing
- Hyperactivity
- Attention or memory deficits
- Difficulties with problem solving
- Delayed growth
- Impulsive behaviour
- Difficulty with abstraction
- Easily distracted
- Inconsistent performance
- Sensory challenges
- Dysmaturity (developmentally younger – 1/2 their chronological age in some areas).
Secondary Characteristics
Without identification and accommodations, secondary defensive behavioural characteristics can develop over time as a result of chronic frustration, trauma and/or failure. These preventable behaviours are normal protective responses to pain, indicating a “poor fit” between the needs of the person and his or her environment, including:
- Easily frustrated (short fuse, anger)
- Easily fatigued (may show as over-activity, irritability, and/or tantrums)
- Confused
- Anxious
- Aggressive
- Destructive behaviours (not due to curiosity or just taking things apart)
- Lonely, isolated
- Easily manipulated and set up by others
- Disruptive in class or at work
- Fearful, avoidant, withdrawn
- Disengaged (distant, shut down)
- Sad.
Tertiary Characteristics
Tertiary characteristics reflect the cumulative effect of chronic frustration and failure and are often preventable. These include:
- In trouble at home
- Running away from home
- In trouble at school or in the community
- Delinquent or involved in criminal activity
- At risk of unplanned or teen pregnancy
- Involved with social services
- Involved with legal/justice system
- Alcohol/drug problems
- Depression
- Mental health problems
- Suicide contemplation
- Chronic self injury
- Multiple diagnoses.
|
