Cognitive Theories in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Why Individuals with Autism Behave the Way They Do

Chris Induswe Olumula; George Mathenge Wairungu

Chris Induswe Olumula
George Mathenge Wairungu

Keywords: autism spectrum disorder, speech therapist, cognitive theories, behavioral cognitive therapy

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological developmental condition characterized by deficits in socio-communication skills and presence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. The condition is lifelong commonly identifiable by the child’s third birthday. This article discusses cognitive theories of autism including the discredited refrigerator mother theory. Others theories include theory of mind deficit hypothesis, weak central coherence theory, executive dysfunction theory, and extreme male brain theory. Cognitive theories attempt to explain why individuals with ASD behave the way they do. Speech therapists and other members of multidisciplinary team need to understand reasons behind behavior and reactions of individuals with ASD. This in turn helps plan effective intervention strategies. It is also effective in counseling caregivers and related stake holders. This is an in-depth qualitative research that assumed descriptive research design. Relevant literature was reviewed from renowned peer reviewed journals.

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