Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Adverse Childhood Experiences
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects 1 in 54 children in America (CDC, 2020). Although symptoms can vary in type and severity, individuals on this spectrum often struggle in social settings (e.g., communication deficits), exhibit restricted and/or repetitive behaviors or interests, and may not perform well in school, work, or other settings. Relative to the general population, individuals with ASD are also at greater risk of adverse life experiences such as being bullied, exploited, victimized, and abused (i.e., verbally, physically, or sexually) along with other forms of maltreatment. Designed for professionals, this 3-hour training serves to highlight the consequences of adverse life experiences on individuals with ASDs. Other related topics covered include theory of mind, empathy, parenting stress, emotion regulation, behavioral regulation, internalizing psychopathology, externalizing psychopathology, substance use, and self-harm. The presenter also discusses implications for screening and intervention.
Learning Outcomes
- Define autism spectrum disorder.
- Identify adverse life experiences including their consequences and red-flag indicators.
- Recognize the role of ASD in exposure to adverse life experiences.
- List the screening and intervention implications of ASD and adverse life experiences as it relates to occupational therapy practitioners.
- Identify cutting-edge research studies and relevant case studies.
Course Information
- Target Audience: introductory- to intermediate-level OTs, COTAs, and other professionals
Note: While many professionals may benefit from the course content, we can only guarantee acceptance of continuing education credit as described in the following CEU section.
- View Agenda
- Course Instructor: Jerrod Brown, PhD
- CE Broker course code: 20-856839
Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
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Sensational Brain LLC is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development. PD activity ID# 03264. This distance-learning, independent format is offered at 0.3 CEUs, Intermediate Level, OT Service Delivery. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA. |

Jerrod Brown, PhD, MA, MS, MS, MS, MS, MS, is a professor, trainer, researcher, and consultant with multiple years of experience teaching collegiate courses. Jerrod is also the founder and CEO of the American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies (AIAFS) and founder and co-editor-in-chief of Forensic Scholars Today. Jerrod has also provided consultation services to a number of caregivers, professionals, and organizations pertaining to topics related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), confabulation, suggestibility, trauma and other life adversities, alexithymia, executive dysfunction, criminal recidivism, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and youth firesetting. Jerrod has completed six separate master’s degree programs and holds graduate certificates in Applied Pediatric Nutrition, Medical Biochemistry, Exercise Prescription, Neuroscience and the Law, Neuropsychology, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Dyslexia, Other Health Disabilities (OHD), and Traumatic-Brain Injuries (TBI). In 2021, Jerrod completed a post-doctoral certificate in Leadership and Organizational Strategy from Walden University and a Professional Certificate in Forensic Psychology from San Diego State University Global Campus. In 2023, Jerrod completed a certificate in diabetes care and education from Central Arizona College. Jerrod has also conducted over 300 workshops, webinars, and on-demand trainings for various organizations and professional and student audiences. Jerrod has published several articles and book chapters, and recently, co-edited the book Forensic Mental Health: A Source Guide for Professionals (Brown & Weinkauf, 2018) with Erv Weinkauf. Jerrod has also been quoted in various magazines, newspapers, and other professional outlets. Jerrod is also regularly featured on several national and international podcast programs.
Disclosures
- Financial: Jerrod Brown receives a speaking fee from Sensational Brain LLC. He is compensated for his position as CEO of the American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies and receives royalties as a co-editor of Forensic Mental Health: A Source Guide for Professionals.
- Nonfinancial: No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.