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What is Autism?
Autism is one of many pervasive developmental disorders (PPDs) and is often referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The acronyms used to describe autism can, in themselves, be confusing. The term Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PPD) (of which autism is the most well-known), refers to a group of developmental conditions affecting children that encompasses impairments and delays in social skills and communication. All PPDs affect communication, behavior, cognitive, and social skills, but they are not all alike. Most PPDs are diagnosed by age 3. Autism diagnoses are based on observation of behavior, not on medical tests.
Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is the term we usually hear when we read about autism. As the term “spectrum” implies, there are degrees to which individuals are affected by autism, and the term ASD is used to encompass a range of severity of symptoms. Two children may share the same diagnosis, but they may exhibit different degrees of behavioral symptoms.
How does Autism Affect Children?
Most useful for parents, though, is not so much what terminology is used to describe autism, but rather how the disorder manifests itself and affects those who have this complex neuro-biological impairment. As the Autism Society of America reports, “Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.”
Children on the autism spectrum have difficulty interacting with or playing with others. These difficulties include avoiding eye contact or being averse to being held or touched. Delays in development of physical, cognitive, social and emotional skills and language acquisition and use (or the achievement and then loss of developmental skills) are also hallmarks of autism.
What Causes Autism?
Although research is ongoing, there is currently no consensus as to the cause of autism. Genetics and environmental factors may play a role in the development of the disorder, but research has not established any definitive links.
There has been much speculation about whether thimerosal (mercury)-containing vaccines can cause autism. No research has found a link between vaccines and autism, and nearly all vaccines have been thimerosal-free since 2001. Researchers do know that parenting styles are not a factor in whether a child is affected by autism.
Is there a Cure for Autism?
There is no definitive cause of autism, and there is no cure for autism. Treatments and interventions can greatly improve the symptoms of autism, particularly if treatment begins very early in a child’s life. Because early intervention is so crucial, early diagnosis is essential.
Autism is a lifelong disability, but keep in mind that there is a difference between being incurable and being untreatable: autism is absolutely a treatable disorder. Early diagnosis, followed by early intervention, gives those affected by ASDs the best opportunity to receive treatment that will improve their symptoms.
What if I Suspect Autism?
If you suspect that your child may be affected by autism, the first course of action is to see your pediatrician right away. If your child has not received a routine developmental assessment, then request one. Determining if a child is meeting the developmental guidelines for his or her age is a crucial first step in determining if further screening is necessary.
Learn to determine what are credible sources regarding autism, read all that you can, and be prepared to report to your child’s pediatrician specific details about your child’s behaviors. If you are not getting answers to your questions, keep pressing until you do. Request a referral to a specialist, seek the opinion of another doctor, and stay informed about autism research.
You are your child’s best advocate, so if you feel something is not right, don’t be afraid to question your child’s pediatrician and advocate for the care your child needs.
Resources & References:
Visit the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development website here.
Also read Autism Speaks’ & What is Autism?