Glossary of Terms

This glossary explains the technical terms used throughout the book in alphabetical order and in plain language.

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)

A behavioral intervention approach based on learning principles that aims to build new skills through individualized goals (see Chapter 21).

ADI-R

A diagnostic interview conducted with parents that systematically assesses a detailed early developmental history (see Chapter 17).

ADOS-2

The gold-standard ASD diagnostic tool, based on direct structured observation (see Chapter 17).

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

Picture-, symbol-, or device-based communication methods for individuals with limited spoken language (see Chapter 22).

Alexithymia

Difficulty recognizing and describing emotions; a common feature in ASD (see Chapter 38).

IEP (Individualized Education Program)

A document of personalized educational goals that is legally required to be prepared for every child receiving special education at school (see Chapter 33).

Sensory Diet

The planned provision of the sensory input a child needs throughout the day (see Chapter 23).

Echolalia

Repeating heard speech patterns either immediately or after a delay (see Chapter 9).

Elopement (Wandering/Bolting)

A tendency to leave a supervised setting in a way that poses a safety risk (see Chapters 32 and 44).

ESDM (Early Start Denver Model)

A play-based, relationship-focused early intervention approach (see Chapter 25).

Fragile X Syndrome

A genetic syndrome caused by a change in the FMR1 gene, frequently associated with ASD (see Chapter 14).

Functional Behavior Assessment

An assessment process that systematically identifies which need a behavior serves (see Chapter 43).

Camouflaging (Masking)

Deliberately hiding social difficulties; especially common in girls and women (see Chapter 11).

M-CHAT-R/F

The most widely used ASD screening tool worldwide, used in children aged 16-30 months (see Chapter 16).

Neurodiversity

An approach that views autism as one form of the natural variation of the human brain (see Chapter 2).

Neuroplasticity

The brain's capacity to reshape itself in response to experience (see Chapter 1).

ASD

Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Joint Attention

The ability to direct one's gaze in order to share an object with another person (see Chapter 6).

PECS

Picture Exchange Communication System; an AAC and teaching method (see Chapters 22 and 25).

Pragmatic Language

The use of language in social context (see Chapter 9).

RAM (Guidance and Research Center)

The official body in Türkiye that carries out special education assessment and referral (see Chapter 33).

Rett Syndrome

A genetic syndrome caused by a change in the MECP2 gene, seen almost exclusively in girls (see Chapter 14).

Secretome

A bioactive mixture of growth factors, cytokines, and microRNAs secreted by cells (see Chapter 27).

Stimming

Repetitive self-regulating movements (such as hand-flapping or rocking) (see Chapter 7).

Severity Level (Level 1-2-3)

A classification indicating the degree of support needed according to the DSM-5 (see Chapter 5).

TEACCH

An educational approach based on visual structuring (see Chapter 25).

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)

A non-invasive neuromodulation method that regulates cortical excitability through magnetic fields (see Chapter 27).

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex

A multisystem genetic disease caused by a change in the TSC1/TSC2 genes, associated with epilepsy and ASD (see Chapter 14).

Excitation-Inhibition Balance

The balance of glutamate (excitatory) and GABA (inhibitory) signaling in the brain (see Chapter 1).

Vineland-3

A scale that assesses daily living / adaptive behavior skills (see Chapter 17). Helpful Resources and Organizations The organizations and resources below may serve as starting points for families seeking additional information and support. These lists may change over time; for current contact information, we recommend visiting the organizations' official websites. Resources in Türkiye

• Tohum Türkiye Autism Early Diagnosis and Education Foundation

a foundation active since 2003, working in early diagnosis, family guidance, and special education (tohumotizm.org.tr).

• Guidance and Research Centers (RAM)

official bodies within provincial/district Directorates of National Education that carry out special education assessment and referral (see Chapter 33).

• Ministry of Family and Social Services

ALO 183 Social Support Line — a free advice line offering social service information and referral for people with disabilities and their families.

• Local autism associations

local associations active in many cities organize family gatherings and support groups; we recommend researching those in your own province. International Resources

• CDC

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov/autism) — reliable, free resources on current prevalence data, screening tools, and developmental milestones.

• Autism Speaks (autismspeaks.org)

an international organization offering family guides, toolkits, and referral to regional resources.

• Autistic Self Advocacy Network

ASAN (autisticadvocacy.org) — an advocacy organization led by autistic individuals that places the neurodiversity perspective at its center. Information Box Before referring to any organization, we recommend comparing several options to find the resource best suited to your own needs and to your child's individual profile. The doctor following your child is also a valuable source of information about current and reliable resources in your area. Bibliography and Further Reading This book was prepared drawing on the following main types of sources. For readers who wish to explore the subject in greater depth, these source types may serve as a starting point:

• American Psychiatric Association (APA)

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5-TR)

• World Health Organization (WHO)

International Classification of Diseases, 11th Edition (ICD-11)

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), United States

Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network (ADDM) reports

• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

autism spectrum disorder screening and treatment guidelines • Current research published in peer-reviewed scientific journals on the genetic, neurobiological, diagnostic, and treatment aspects of ASD • The author's own clinical experience and academic work in the fields of pediatric neurology, developmental pediatrics, and pediatric epileptology Important Reminder Medicine and science are constantly evolving fields. The information in this book is based on scientific findings that are current and accurate as of the date it was prepared; however, over time new research may update existing knowledge. For every decision concerning your child, it is essential to consult your doctor, who is familiar with current knowledge and with your child's individual situation. Prof. Dr. Burak Tatlı Specialist in Pediatric Health and Diseases Pediatric Neurology Specialist · Developmental Pediatrics Specialist · Pediatric Epileptologist