The Impact of Early Institutionalisation on the Development of Autism

Autism is a developmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours. Early institutionalization has been identified as a possible factor in the development of autism. In this article, we will discuss several studies that have investigated the impact of early institutionalization on autism.

One study followed children adopted from Romanian orphanages, which were known for their poor conditions. The study found that those who spent more time in the institutions had a higher likelihood of developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Another study in Ghana found that children who were institutionalized had a higher likelihood of developing autism than those who were not. The authors of these studies suggest that institutionalization can affect the developing brain and contribute to the development of autism.

Children with ASD who were institutionalized also experienced more developmental delays, behavioural problems, and lower levels of communication, social skills, cognitive abilities, and emotional and behavioural problems. Early institutionalization may exacerbate the symptoms of ASD and negatively impact a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development.

Moreover, institutionalized children had higher levels of mental health problems, including anxiety and depression, even after entering foster care. Therefore, early intervention and support are necessary to mitigate the negative impact of institutionalization on child development. Alternative care arrangements should also be provided whenever possible.

In conclusion, more research is needed to understand the relationship between institutionalization and autism. However, it is clear that early institutionalization may increase the risk of developing ASD and exacerbate its symptoms. Early intervention and support, as well as alternative care arrangements, may help mitigate the negative impact of institutionalization on child development.

References:

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McCall, R. B. (2013, November 1). The consequences of early institutionalization: Can institutions be improved? – should they? Child and adolescent mental health. Retrieved March 31, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3833822/ 

Pollak, S. D., Nelson, C. A., Schlaak, M. F., Roeber, B. J., Wewerka, S. S., Wiik, K. L., Frenn, K. A., Loman, M. M., & Gunnar, M. R. (2010). Neurodevelopmental effects of early deprivation in postinstitutionalized children. Child development. Retrieved March 31, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2846096/ 

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Wilbarger, J., Gunnar, M., Schneider, M., & Pollak, S. (2010, October). Sensory processing in internationally adopted, post-institutionalized children. Journal of child psychology and psychiatry, and allied disciplines. Retrieved March 31, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3119572/