Savant Syndrome
Savant syndrome is an extraordinary condition often associated with developmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Individuals with savant syndrome exhibit exceptional abilities in specific domains such as memory, arithmetic, musical talent, or artistic skills. These abilities are significantly advanced compared to their general intelligence level.
The IQ of individuals with savant syndrome varies widely. Some may have below-average intelligence, while others possess average or above-average IQs. Notably, their remarkable skills don’t necessarily mirror their overall intelligence.
People sometimes ask, “What do people with savant syndrome see?” There is no definitive answer to that since people with savant syndrome experience the world uniquely, depending on their talents. For instance, a musical savant may have a heightened ability to recognise and replicate complex musical notes. In contrast, a memory savant might visualise intricate details with exceptional clarity.
Savant Syndrome Symptoms & Diagnosis
Savant syndrome isn’t formally categorised in diagnostic manuals like the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition). It’s identified by extraordinary abilities in someone with a developmental disorder.
Key Symptoms or Characteristics of Savant Syndrome:
Exceptional Abilities
These can be in areas like music, art, mathematics, mechanical or spatial skills, calendar calculations, or memory. These abilities are remarkable when compared to the individual’s overall level of functioning.
Developmental Disorders
Many individuals with savant syndrome have underlying developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder or other cognitive impairments.
Early Onset
Extraordinary skills often appear in childhood.
Narrow Range of Focus
The skills or talents are usually particular and focused on a specific area.
3 Recognised Types of Savants
Their perception and cognitive processing in their area of expertise are often atypical and can be extraordinarily detailed and accurate. However, this perception is highly individual and can’t be generalised across all savants.
Splinter Skills Savants
They exhibit specific talents, like an extraordinary memory for trivia.
Talented Savants
Notable talents in fields like art or music set against a developmental disability.
Prodigious Savants
They are rare individuals with exceptional skills, such as music composition or mathematics that are remarkable even in non-disabled persons.
Acquired Savant Syndrome
Acquired savant syndrome is extremely rare. There are only a handful of documented cases worldwide. It is a phenomenon where a person without a history of developmental disabilities develops extraordinary abilities after a traumatic event, such as a brain injury, stroke, or severe blow to the head.
Unlike congenital savant syndrome, which is present from birth or early childhood, acquired savant syndrome emerges after a specific incident or illness that affects the brain. These new abilities can be in areas like music, art, mathematics, mechanical, or spatial skills and are typically far above the individual’s previous capabilities.
Some theories suggest that these abilities emerge as compensation for lost functions due to brain damage, possibly due to the reorganisation or rerouting of brain networks. This fascinating condition suggests that savant-like abilities may lie dormant within all brains, only manifesting under certain unusual conditions.
Difference Between Savant Syndrome and Autism
While related, savant syndrome and autism are distinct. ASD is a developmental disorder impacting social and communicative abilities. Savant syndrome, on the other hand, involves exceptional abilities in specific domains, while still displaying some traits of ASD.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterised by challenges in social interaction, communication, and behaviour. It’s a spectrum condition affecting individuals differently and to varying degrees. People with autism might also exhibit unique strengths and differences in how they perceive and interact with the world.
Though often associated with autism, savant skills can also occur in other contexts, like after a neurological injury. The term “autistic savant syndrome” is not a formal medical or psychological diagnosis but is sometimes used to describe individuals who have both ASD and savant syndrome.
How ABA Therapy Helps Children With Savant Syndrome
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) Therapy, effective for children with ASD, can also aid those with savant syndrome. It helps improve behaviours, communication, and adaptive learning skills.
ABA therapy uses structured learning to break down tasks, making them more manageable for children with unique talents and needs. Therapists might leverage a child’s savant skills to enhance engagement and learning, like using music in therapy for a child with musical talent.
This approach also helps children generalise skills across various settings, which is crucial for comprehensive development and independence. Moreover, ABA involves family training, providing strategies to support the child’s development at home. Its data-driven nature allows for personalised interventions tailored to each child’s progress and needs.
Next Steps
If you suspect your child may have savant syndrome, you should closely observe and document any extraordinary musical, artistic, mathematical, or memory abilities. Recording these skills and their development is crucial for future evaluations. Early consultation with healthcare professionals, such as paediatricians or psychologists, is also essential.
Parents should also seek support and information from parental support groups and educate themselves about savant syndrome and related conditions. They should encourage and nurture the child’s talents in a positive environment while ensuring balanced social, emotional, and practical development. Collaborating with educators and therapists provides a consistent approach to the child’s learning and development.
As parents, you’re instrumental in shaping your child’s future. Our aim at AutismSTEP is to equip you with the resources and guidance necessary to nurture your child’s growth. When we join forces and pool our knowledge, children with autism are not just supported—they thrive.
Please reach out for a consultation or contact us directly at +65 6456 9950 for insights into the most appropriate therapy for your child and to ensure you’re making the best decision for their future.
