“What Is Autism Disorder?” is a question that science and modern society have answered partially. We know how to diagnose autism, and yet we lack definite knowledge of its origins, the most effective treatment or cure.
Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that there are different types of autism that range from severe to mild, all on a continuum. Hence the terms, ‘autism’ and ‘autism spectrum disorder’ or ‘ASD’ are interchangeable. The term falls under the more general category of ‘Developmental Disability’.
Who has Autism?
Most recent statistics indicate that one in every one thousand people worldwide has autism; the numbers are higher within the United States (at approximately nine per one thousand.) Male children are up to four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism as female children.
Why does Autism occur?
There is no definitive answer, but scientists have ascertained that environmental factors and genetic components both have a part to play in the occurrence of autism.
What are the main indicators of Autism Disorder?
The main traits that are indicative of autism include, but are not limited to:
- difficulty with socialization and communication; indifference to interpersonal interaction; lack of visible empathy; lack of eye contact and physical contact
- behavioral challenges, including a tendency to withdraw; a tendency toward anger and volatility when external stimuli become overwhelming
- sensitivity to stimuli, including loud noises, bright visual stimuli, physical touch
- tics; repetitive, self-stimulating behavior (referred to as stimming); sometimes self-injurious behavior
These traits occur in a person with autism before the age of three. For more specific information on signs of autism in infants and signs of autism in toddlers, see our related posts. (Autism Facts is also a good starting point.) It’s worth noting that these traits manifest differently in each person with autism, and can be mitigated via therapy and medication. Additionally, use of adaptive equipment can be very helpful for people with autism spectrum disorder. If a person with autism becomes agitated upon encountering loud noises, for example, they may choose to carry headphones or earplugs to help prevent sensory overload.
What are the different Types Of Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorders are typically separated into three broader categories. First, people with Asperger Syndrome exhibit similar traits, but in a more mild form. Asperger Symptoms are very much akin to Autism Symptoms (as Asperger Syndrome is on the Autism Spectrum), but people with Aspergers often do not have an intellectual disability; rather, their primary challenges lie in the areas of socialization. Secondly, classic Autism often includes intellectual disability, in addition to the social, behavioral and communication challenges mentioned above. Finally, those with Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) are also classified as being on the Autism Spectrum. Their primary challenges are in the communication and socialization areas. They may have some of the traits of a person with classic Autism, but not others.