Presented by: Susan Scharoun, Ph.D., Professor, Psychology Department, Le Moyne College

Autism is a multidimensional disorder, often referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder or Pervasive Developmental Disorder. The term spectrum exemplifies the wide variance in type and intensity of autism symptoms and behaviors. 

This webinar will cover the core deficits of autism as well as the associated behaviors frequently observed from a biopsychosocial perspective. A one-size-fits all approach to treatment is not appropriate. A careful evaluation of how the core symptoms present and a person-centered approach to address the deficits is important to consider in a successful treatment plan.

Positive Behavior Support and appropriate use of pharmacological treatment will be discussed as possible tools for change. The use of medications should always be accompanied by a well-designed companion behavior support plan that targets the same behaviors.

After completing this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand the core deficits of Autism Spectrum Disorder. The criteria as identified in the DSM- 5 and DM-ID 2
• Understand the concept of associated behaviors. These are behaviors that reflect how core deficits impact a person’s day-to-day behaviors.
• Understand the basic concepts associated with Positive Behavior Support, an evidenced based management system used to understand causes and maintenance of challenging behaviors.
• Understand the importance of developing a person-centered approach to treatment. 
• Identify pharmacological interventions that have research support for use in addressing symptoms of ASD.
  

About the Presenter:

Dr. Susan Scharoun has a Ph.D. in Psychology from Syracuse University. After graduating from S.U., she received a National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) post-doctoral fellowship to do brain research in the Department of Anatomy and Center for Brain Research at the University of Rochester Medical School.

Dr. Scharoun was employed by NYS Office of People with a Developmental Disability as an Associate Psychologist and Treatment Team Leader for seventeen years before becoming a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Le Moyne College, where she was the chair of the department for over a decade.

Her research interests include autism and addressing challenging behaviors with positive behavioral support. Dr. Scharoun has taught courses such as Brain and Behavior, Childhood Disorders, Human Lifespan Development, Motivation and Emotion, Personality Theory, Human Lifespan Development, The Psychology of Disabilities and Health Psychology. She is a consultant psychologist for several not-for-profit agencies that serve children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Dr. Scharoun is on the Board of Directors of ARC of Onondaga and is the co-author of the e-publication of Dual Diagnosis, A Caregiver’s Guide. Dr. Scharoun is a sibling of a person with a developmental disability and a strong advocate for families.