Title: Autism Spectrum Disorders in Iranian Children: A Behavioral Challenge Approach

Biography:

Shahnaz Soleimani has completed his BS degree at the age of 25 years from Payame Noor University, Iran in 2012. Also she has graduated from Azad University in Master of Science in the Clinical Psychology. She is the Director of behavioral department of the Nobel, Office of Social and Child Advisory Services.

Abstract

Autism is a complex neurobehavioral condition that involves loss of harmony with repetitive behaviors in social interaction and developing language and communication skills. Due to the limitations of symptoms, this condition is now called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The World Health Organization noted in 2013 that reviews estimate one child in 160 has an autism spectrum disorder. Most research into Autism Spectrum Disorders has been conducted in affluent English-speaking countries which have extensive professional support services. Also, a series of investigations was undertaken in Iran. Iran does not have any official estimation of its autism population. Mohammed Taki Jaghtei, a consultant to the Health Ministry, has said that by September 23, an autism screening program will be conducted in the partner initiative between the Kalyan organization and the Special Education Organization. Nevertheless, the state welfare organization says that the number of diagnoses is increasing. According to findings of searched PubMed, ISI Web of Science, and 4 Iranian databases (IranPsych, IranMedex, Irandoc and Scientific Information Database (SID) to find Iranian studies on ASDs., 39 investigations, comprising original, review and editorial articles; proceedings; and available dissertations were categorized by prevalence, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment Awareness about autism is growing in Iran through TV shows and educational campaigns. But families still struggle without any outside help and worry about the future when they are gone. According the research findings, the most commonly reported needs of Iranian parents who have children with autism are related to services, professionals, and information about their child unusually behaviors. Parents also express that they need help to deal with their fear about childs future. Some researcher believe that in Iran, the main issues are lack of resources and support for families.