About Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that impacts individuals differently. It is characterized by challenges in social communication, interaction, and repetitive behaviors. The “spectrum” aspect refers to the wide range of symptoms and abilities that people with ASD can exhibit. Some may have exceptional skills in specific areas, while others may need significant support in daily activities.
Early intervention, including therapies tailored to an individual’s needs, plays a crucial role in helping those with ASD lead fulfilling lives. With the right support, many individuals with ASD can thrive and contribute uniquely to society.
Prevalence of Autism
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), about 1 in 36 children in the U.S. has been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While ASD tends to be four-times more common in boys, ASD is reported across all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interactions, and behavior, often leading to rigid or repetitive actions. Individuals with ASD may show challenges in two primary areas: Social Communication and Interaction, as well as Restrictive and Repetitive Behaviors. Common signs include reduced eye contact, difficulty engaging in pretend play, resistance to changes in routine, and sensitivity to sensory inputs like light or noise.
ASD may be diagnosed before the age of two and last a lifetime. Children may exhibit symptoms as early as 12 months old and be delayed in reaching developmental milestones. Some children meet developmental milestones until age 24 months and then begin to lose those skills and stop reaching new milestones.
While there is no cure for ASD, research shows that certain interventions can significantly reduce its symptoms. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) emphasizes an approach to understanding how behavior and environment influence the ability to learn new skills.
Early Signs of Autism
- Avoids or does not keep eye contact
- Does not respond to name by 9 months of age
- Does not show facial expressions like happy, sad, angry, and surprised by 9 months of age
- Does not play simple interactive games like pat-a-cake by 12 months of age
- Uses few or no gestures by 12 months of age (for example, does not wave goodbye)
- Does not share interests with others by 15 months of age (for example, shows you an object that they like)
- Does not point to show you something interesting by 18 months of age
- Does not notice when others are hurt or upset by 24 months of age
- Does not notice other children and join them in play by 36 months of age
- Does not pretend to be something else, like a teacher or superhero, during play by 48 months of age
- Does not sing, dance, or act for you by 60 months of age
Social and Communication Difficulties
People with ASD often struggle with understanding social cues, maintaining eye contact, and forming relationships. They may also have difficulty expressing their thoughts and emotions, leading to communication challenges. People with ASD often struggle with understanding social cues, maintaining eye contact, and forming relationships. They may also have difficulty expressing their thoughts and emotions, leading to communication challenges.
Individuals with ASD may engage in repetitive actions or have focused interests in specific topics. These behaviors can provide comfort or help them manage anxiety but may appear unusual to others.
