What is Autism ?
Autism is a complex developmental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. What is autism exactly? Autism affects the brain’s development and the way it processes information. It is a spectrum disorder, meaning that it affects each individual differently, and that is the reason that the symptoms vary from person to person.
Despite that, when we try to understand what is autism exactly, it’s important to note that five of the most common autism symptoms are:
- Difficulty with social interaction
- Communication difficulties
- Repetitive behaviors
- Sensory processing difficulties
- Delayed Motor Skills
What is autism, how it is diagnosed, and what the current treatments and therapies are:
What is autism’s impact on social interaction?
People with autism may struggle to make and maintain eye contact, initiate and maintain a conversation, share emotions and interest with others, understand social cues, and make friends. Additionally, individuals with Autism cannot read or understand nonverbal communication manipulated with facial expressions or have limited or absent imaginative play and do not present interest in their peers.
What is autism’s impact on communication?
People with autism may have difficulty communicating their needs and wants effectively. Their speech can be delayed or absent. They do not use pointing as a form of requesting, and They may use repetitive language or have trouble with nonverbal communication.
What is autism’s impact on repetitive behaviors?
People with autism may engage in repetitive behaviors, such as hand flapping or rocking, repeat the same words or sentences. We may see an unusual interaction with toys such as aligning toys or watching tires spin. People with autism may demonstrate inflexibility with transitions and changes, develop rituals by doing the same things every day, eating the same food, and playing with the same toys. They may also have restricted interests, such as focusing on one topic or activity for long periods.
What is autism’s impact on sensory processing?
People with autism may have difficulty processing sensory information, such as sounds, smells, or textures. They may express aversiveness to specific sounds or texture. Also, they may engage in excessive smelling or touching objects and be fascinated by lights or movement, such as flashlights or spinning tops.
What is autism’s impact on motor skills?
People with autism may experience difficulties with gross and fine motor skills. They may look clumsy and have trouble sustaining their balance. Of course, there are many more symptoms as they differ from person to person as we mentioned earlier.
The best course of action if you suspect that your child has autism is to have an exam by a medical professional such as a neurologist or psychiatrist. They are the ones that can perform a diagnosis. A diagnosis is typically based on a combination of factors, including a child’s developmental history, behavior, and communication skills. There is no single test for autism, but doctors may use tools such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, also known as (ADOS) for short or the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised, (ADI-R) for short, to help diagnose the disorder.
While there is no cure for autism, there are various treatments and therapies available to help manage the symptoms.
Behavioral therapy is a common type of therapy that focuses on changing behavior patterns through reinforcement and conditioning. Its main goal is to teach social and communication skills, as well as reduce repetitive or maladaptive behaviors. Additionally, it can help children with autism learn how to cope with challenging situations or emotions.
Speech therapy is another type of therapy that focuses on improving communication skills, such as language, pronunciation, and conversation. This type of therapy typically involves a variety of techniques and activities that are tailored to the child’s individual needs and abilities.
Occupational therapy can also be helpful for children with autism, as it helps individuals develop or improve the skills needed for everyday life activities, such as dressing, eating, and playing. For children with autism, occupational therapy can help them improve their fine motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living skills.
Medication: While there are no medications specifically for autism, some medications may help manage symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or aggression.
If you suspect that you or a loved one may have autism, it is important to seek the advice of a medical professional. With proper diagnosis and treatment, people with autism can live fulfilling and happy lives. So remember, if you’re wondering what is autism, it is a complex developmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior, but with proper support and treatment, individuals with autism can thrive.
Also read: What is Asperger Syndrome?
About Olga Sirbu
My name is Olga Sirbu, I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Applied Behavioral Analyst. My goal is to support and empower families and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Autism Advance is dedicated to training parents and caregivers, providing practical tips, and teaching individuals how to educate kids with autism.
I share evidence-based practices to help you better understand and support individuals with autism. Learn practical strategies to help individuals with autism reach their full potential, as well as gain a deeper understanding and acceptance of autism.
Thank you for considering Autism Advance as a resource for your autism journey.
