A Spot on the Spectrum

Phenomenological approaches focus on the immediate and subjective experience of consciousness in the present moment, heavily focusing on the what rather than the why to determine underlying causes (Cervone & Pervin, 2023). The goal is to understand the structure of consciousness and how current experiences contribute to the individual sense of the world.  Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Abraham Maslow developed a theory that proposed that human beings are motivated to fulfill needs based on a tier of hierarchy (a system of organized levels) (Greene & Burke, 2007). As the tiers are fulfilled step-by-step, from lower to higher levels, individuals progress toward self-actualization and realize their full potential. Maslow defined self-actualization as the highest human need in the hierarchy, where the full potential is realized, and all basic needs are met. He emphasized that self-actualization was met when individuals developed a sense of self-awareness in conjunction with fine-t...

An underlying understanding of personality theories can help individuals understand how patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors make up an individual's personality. Psychoanalytic approaches emphasize the unconscious mind and how it influences behavior (Berlin, 2014). This approach often focuses on early childhood experiences and unresolved conflicts and how they shape personality. Although Sigmund Freud is widely regarded as the father of psychoanalysis, other psychoanalytic approaches were built and modified upon his foundational conclusions and core concepts to create enhanced frameworks that focused on different aspects of the human experiences that offered alternative perspectives on Freud's original theories.  The Adlerian Approach Adlerian theory, developed by Dr. Alfred Adler, emphasizes individual uniqueness and encompasses goal-oriented behavior. Dr. Adler believed that everyone experiences real and perceived feelings of inferiority, which encourages motivation ...

Autism spectrum disorder, also known as ASD, is a neurological and developmental disorder that causes deficits in communication, socio-emotional reciprocity, learning, and behavior (Frith &  Happé , 20 05). Although it can be diagnosed during any stage of life, symptoms of ASD generally become apparent during the first two years. According to the most current version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ( 5th ed.; DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association,  2022 ) , alon g with deficits in social communication and social interaction, symptoms of autism include repetitive patterns of behaviors and interests, rigid thinking or cognitive inflexibility, and developmental delays in areas like langu age and motor skill development that do not overlap with other potential medical or mental conditi ons (APA, 2022).  Based on features and their severity, three levels of autism vary in ability and deficit. Autism's Role in Personality Development Weakne...

Hello and welcome! My name is Helen, and I am the creator and voice behind  A Spot on the Spectrum . I created this blog as a safe space to share knowledge, professional insight, and personal experiences centered around autism spectrum disorder, also commonly referred to as ASD.  With a mixed background in education and healthcare, including counseling, I have spent many years exploring the complexities of neurodevelopmental conditions with a significant focus on autism. Becoming a mother to a now almost 13-year-old son who was diagnosed with ASD at a young age further fueled my passion and desire to discover new things about autism to share with others, leading to the start of my journey in clinical psychology. As an emerging psychology student at a doctoral level, I recognize the need for accessible, honest, and respectful conversations that reflect science and life experiences - which this blog aims to provide.  Whether you are a parent, educator, advocate, mental heal...