What is Autism?
Autism (Autism Spectrum disorders) is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. It could be present from birth or become visible very early in development.
The result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, it impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Children and adults with autism experience difficulty in verbal and non-verbal communication, in communicating ideas and feelings, imagination, social interaction and leisure or play activities.
Autism is the most common of the Pervasive Development Disorders affecting an estimated 1 to 166 births (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2004, USA). This means that as many as 1.5 million Americans today are believed to suffer from some form of autism.
The overall incidence of
autism is consistent around the globe, and is four times more prevalent in
boys than girls. Autism is not bound by racial, ethnic, or social
boundaries; family income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect
the chance of its occurrence.
ASD is defined by a certain set of behaviors that can range from the very
mild to the severe. The following possible indicators of ASD were
identified on the Public Health Training Network Webcast, Autism Among Us.
Possible Indicators of
Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Does not babble, point, or make meaningful gestures by 1 year of age
• Does not speak one word by 16 months
• Does not combine two words by 2 years
• Does not respond to name
• Loses language or social skills
Some Other Indicators
• Poor eye contact
• Doesn't seem to know how to play with toys
• Excessively lines up toys or other objects
• Is attached to one particular toy or object
• Doesn't smile
• At times “seems” to be hearing impaired
The autism spectrum disorders can often be reliably detected by the age of
3 years, and in some cases as early as 18 months. Parents are usually the
first to notice unusual behaviors in their child. They might feel that the
baby seemed "different" from birth, unresponsive to people and sounds
around them or focusing intently on one item for long periods of time. The
first signs of an ASD can also appear in children who seem to have been
developing normally and parent’s sense that the child stopped responding
or responding differently “all of a sudden”. When a previously engaging,
babbling toddler suddenly becomes silent, withdrawn, self-abusive, or
indifferent to social overtures, something is wrong. Research has shown
that parents are usually correct about noticing developmental problems,
although they may not realize the specific nature or degree of the
problem.
Thus it becomes important for General Physicians or the Pediatricians to take note of all the observations about the child being given by the parent esp. the mother. Pediatricians, family physicians, daycare providers, teachers, and parents may initially dismiss signs of ASD, optimistically thinking the child is just a little slow and will "catch up”.
The earlier the disorder is diagnosed, the sooner the child can be helped through treatment interventions. The diagnosis requires a two-stage process.
The first stage involves developmental screening during "well child" check-ups (usually done by the pediatrician). Parental observations and concerns about the child's development are essential in helping to screen the child. Reviewing family videotapes, photos, and baby albums can help parents remember when each behavior was first noticed and when the child reached certain developmental milestones and further decipher if certain milestones were significantly delayed.
The second stage
entails a comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team which
would include psychologist, a neurologist, a psychiatrist, a speech
therapist, or other professionals who diagnose children with ASD.
Next in the series- “Developmental checklists” to help parents screen
the child.
By: Birinder Kalra Consultant & Special
Educator
New Delhi, INDIA
magex123@yahoo.co.in
Note: The views expressed in this article are strictly those of the writer and 123oye does not take any responsibility for them. Follow them at your own risk.
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