Autism Spectrum Disorder

What is Autism?

Autism is a social and communication disability that affects the way a person communicates and relates to people around them. It also affects how people make sense of the world around them. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a term used because Autism varies from person to person.

It is not a learning disability, mental illness or health issue, although these conditions can co-exist alongside Autism.

Some people with ASD will have average or above average intelligence, they are likely to be diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome.

Regardless of an individuals level of functioning all individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder will have problems in the areas of Communication, Social Skills and Imagination.

There is no known cure for Autism, but with correct intervention and support most individuals can go on to live independent lives.

What causes Autism?

The disability has a physical origin, resulting from impairment of functioning in specific brain regions. The cause of Autism is a subject of debate based upon limited research and resulting in inconclusive debates about the impact of genetics, environment, diet and vaccines.

Early signs of ASD - a child may demonstrate none, some, or all of these symptoms

All individuals with ASD demonstrate varying degrees of the following:

The child begins to develop language then loses it or doesn't acquire language
The child may appear deaf because they respond unevenly or not at all to sounds
The child may have difficulty during transitions
The child may have difficulty sleeping
The child does not "point and look"
The child may experience failure to bond (e.g. child is indifferent to parents presence)
The child may have limited imaginative play
The child may not be interested in playing with other children
The child may have impairments in social relationships

Deficits in communication and language
Intense interest in certain interests or activities
Dependence on routine
Sensory problems
Behaviour problems
Variability of intellectual functioning
Uneven development profile
Difficulties in sleeping, toileting and eating

Asperger's Syndrome

Some individuals may receive a diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome; Asperger's Syndrome is an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Features of an Asperger's Syndrome Diagnosis

Individuals with Asperger's Syndrome may have average or above average intelligence
Individuals with Asperger's Syndrome may not have experienced a delay in language development as children but may have had an unusual language development. Such as being very talkative from a young age and using language expected from much older people
Individuals with Asperger's Syndrome may be very clumsy and poorly coordinated
Individuals with Asperger's Syndrome may be very talented in a certain area and excel in this, but have real problems with practical tasks and organisation

It is important to remember that Asperger's Syndrome is not “mild” Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder | Facts and Statistics | Health and Social Care