Sometimes it’s hard to pinpoint a rationale behind someone’s behaviour. Symptomatic conditions can sometimes be difficult to precisely categorize. Are they this, or are they that? A child could be manifesting some conditions of one developmental disorder, but they could simultaneously be presenting themselves in a way that is symptomatic of another. It is not uncommon for this to happen with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Social Communication Disorder (SCD). They are both developmental conditions that affect communication and social interaction. However, these two diagnoses present themselves in slightly different ways. At Monarch House we work with children with both presentations, but it is important that they are correctly distinguished.

Here are ten key differences between SCD and ASD amongst children with autism Toronto. 

1. The Definition

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is our primary focus at Monarch House. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges with repetitive behaviours, social communication, and restricted interests. It’s not uncommon for autism to present itself with a range of symptoms and severities, which is why it is often viewed on a spectrum.
• Social Communication Disorder (SCD) is a condition specifically focused on communication in social contexts. It pertains to the difficulties with verbal and nonverbal communication that happen in group or one-on-one environments. It is different from autism in that its diagnosis does not include repetitive behaviors or restricted interests. If a child only shows what can be seen as autistic qualities in a group setting, it might be beneficial to reassess them under the lens of SCD. 

2. Core Symptoms

• Does your child rock back and forth and avoid eye contact while you are trying to have a conversation with them? ASD usually involves a combination of social communication difficulties and atypical behaviours. Some of the symptoms that may arise include difficulty understanding social cues, sensory sensitivities, and repetitive movements.
• SCD is different because it specifically involves issues with using language effectively in social situations. Some of the things that professionals look for are things like challenges in staying on topic, turn-taking, or understanding figurative language.

3. Repetitive Behaviors

• Autism can be very physical in its demonstration. ASD will often manifest through repetitive actions such as rocking, hand-flapping, or a rigid insistence on things being the same.
• Social communication disorder does not include these repetitive behaviours. With SCD, the focus is only on social communication challenges.

4. Social Interaction

• Does your child appear to have difficulty reading and assessing emotions on people’s faces? With ASD, children may struggle with understanding social norms and have limited interest in social interactions. There are instances where a child with autism will actively seek out social engagement but lack the skills to do so effectively.
• SCD is different. Children also desire social interaction but sometimes fall short in engagement because they don’t have the necessary communication skills. This can lead to frustration.

5. Onset and Diagnosis

• With autism, the symptoms are often detected at an earlier age. ASD symptoms present in early childhood and can be diagnosed as early as eighteen months. In these cases, early intervention is crucial for better outcomes. At Monarch House, we can help with the early assessment of children of all ages. 
• SCD is diagnosed in children who do not necessarily exhibit the criteria of autism however they do possess social communication difficulties. As social demands increase, symptoms often become more apparent.

6. Associated Conditions

• There is a lot of overlap with autism. Autism often co-occurs with other conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and other intellectual disabilities.
• SCD does not. It may also coexist with other language disorders but is separate from ASD and does not necessarily involve other developmental conditions.

7. Treatment Approaches

• At Monarch House, we offer a variety of ways to address ASD. Treatment may include behavioural therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, psychotherapy, and social skills training. Each is customized to your child’s specific needs. 
• We work with SCD as well. Treatment typically focuses on emphasizing practical communication strategies and improving social communication skills through targeted speech and language therapy.

8. Awareness and Understanding

• By now, everyone in Canada knows what autism is. Thanks to advocates, media, and our school system, there is widespread awareness of the condition. Autism is supported by numerous advocacy organizations, research studies, and resources.
• Conversely, SCD is less well known and understood. Societal understanding and acceptance is still in its infancy, but awareness is slow growing. As it stands today, many people still confuse SCD with autism.

9. Long-Term Outlook

• At Monarch House, we place a great deal of emphasis on children learning the skills they need to live on their own someday. With ASD, long-term outcomes vary widely about how achievable this is, however. With support from parents, caregivers, and professionals like our therapists, some children with autism achieve significant independence. Others, however, may require lifelong support.
• The outlook for independence with SCD is optimistic. At Monarch House we have the services to help with parents, educators, and caretakers to make this a possibility. With appropriate intervention, many individuals can improve their social communication skills significantly. That said, some challenges may persist into adulthood.

10. Public Perception

• At Monarch House, we see autism as a kind of superpower. In fact, ASD is often viewed through a lens of having unique abilities and challenges. This is in no small part due to a variety of support networks and community resources, including Monarch House and the support groups that we offer parents and caregivers. 
• SCD may be overlooked in discussions about developmental disorders. There is simply less press and discussion about the condition. For that reason, individuals with SCD might not receive the same level of understanding or support.

At first blush, it might be hard to tell if a child is presenting symptoms of one developmental disorder or another. It’s true that Autism Spectrum Disorder and Social Communication Disorder have some similarities. However, they are two distinct conditions with their own distinct characteristics and challenges. At Monarch House, we provide an interdisciplinary team of professionals to help with the assessment and customized services required no matter what the condition. Our behavioural therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and psychotherapists help create a holistic picture to allow us to understand these differences. It is crucial for your child to get the appropriate diagnosis, intervention, and support. Increased awareness can help in fostering a more inclusive environment for children with autism Toronto. In this way we strive to meet the distinctive needs of your child and all children that need help, regardless of their condition.