Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
This diagnostic manual combined subtypes such as Asperger’s and PDD-NOS into one umbrella term: Autism Spectrum Disorder.
What is the DSM-5?
This sensory system detects head movement and spatial orientation, helping maintain balance.
What is the vestibular system?
When an individual reacts too strongly or for too long to mild stimuli, they show this sensory pattern.
What is hyper-responsivity?
Using predictable session routines, visual supports, and consistent cues helps clients improve this ability.
What is self-regulation?
This therapy uses low-frequency sound vibrations to stimulate both hearing and touch for relaxation and regulation.
What is Vibroacoustic Therapy?
These three severity levels in ASD describe the amount of support needed in daily functioning.
What is Level 1 (requiring support), Level 2 (requiring substantial support), and Level 3 (Requiring very substantial support)?
This system provides awareness of muscle stretch and joint position— essential for coordinated movement.
What is proprioception?
When a person seems unresponsive or unaware unless stimulation is very strong, they show this.
What is hypo-responsivity?
Echoing vocalizations and turn-taking in songs help target this area of social functioning.
What is social communication?
Modifying rhythm, tempo, or volume allows music therapists to meet this aspect of a client’s sensory needs.
What are the qualities of sensation or sensory thresholds?
A child who flaps their hands, repeats phrases, or lines up objects may be showing signs of this core diagnostic feature of autism.
What are restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior?
This system detects sensations like light touch, pressure, temperature, and pain.
What is the tactile system?
Behaviors like spinning, fidgeting, or vocalizing to gain sensory input are examples of this.
What are sensory-seeking behaviors?
Using rhythm to organize and process sensory input addresses this therapeutic focus area.
What is sensory integration?
This musical technique helps individuals move smoothly between activities or environments through musical cues.
What are transition songs?
Scientists believe these two major factors—rather than a single cause—interact in the development of autism.
What are genetic and environmental factors?
This system processes internal bodily signals such as heartbeat, hunger, and respiration.
What is interoception?
The ability to plan and execute new or complex motor behaviors involves ideation, planning, and execution.
What is praxis?
Songs that require one-step and multi-step directions strengthen this cognitive skill.
What is attention or following directions?
Lowering lights, minimizing background noise, and creating calm spaces are part of this environmental approach.
What is creating a sensory-friendly environment?
Research shows individuals with autism may have reduced activity in this inhibitory neurotransmitter.
What is GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric Acid)?
This sensory system detects vibration and pitch, essential for both listening and music participation.
What is the auditory system?
Maintaining the appropriate level of alertness needed for an activity or environment.
What is self-regulation?
Songs with repetitive and predictable structures support this area of functioning by reinforcing sequencing and expectations.
What is routine learning or transition support?
Music therapists often collaborate with these professionals to assess and address sensory processing patterns.
Who are occupational therapists?