According to the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders," doctors diagnose approximately two to 20 cases of autism per every 10,000 people. The cause of this disorder, as well as the reason for the increase in autism cases over the past 50 years, remains unclear. In fact, whether or not actual cases of autism have increased is also up for debate, according to the American Psychiatric Association, which notes that diagnostic methodology and an increased awareness of this disorder may in itself account for the rising number of autism diagnoses. Regardless of etiology, the faster a parent recognizes signs of autism and obtains services for his child, the better the long-term prognosis. Below are the classic signs and symptoms of autistic disorder.
Impairment in Social Functioning
Autistic individuals have difficulty engaging in normal social interaction. Children may lack or avoid eye contact with parents or peers. They may also show a lack of interest in making friends or engaging in social learning. Other signs of autistic behavior include a disinterest in "showing," "bringing," or "mommy, look" behaviors. Because these types of activities are developmental, a child who is not engaging in them around the same time as his or her peers may be exhibiting symptoms of an autism spectrum disorder.
Impairment in Communication
Lack of language development, delay in language development, or the loss of words already learned are all potential signs of autism. Language delays or regression typically occur before the age of three. Autistic children who already possess language may have difficulty initiating or sustaining a conversation. They may also use language in a repetitive or stereotypical way and have marked difficulty with creative or imaginary play.
Repetitive or Mechanical Patterns of Behavior
Aside from a stereotyped use of language, autistic individuals tend to be preoccupied and fascinated with patterns and mechanical or architectural features. For example, an autistic child may trace the lines on a wooden floor, stare at a ceiling fan for hours, or be obsessed with how the flusher works on the toilet. Autistic people also tend to display an inflexibility in their behaviors and routines. In a child, this may result in temper tantrums when certain routines are not followed.
References
- "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision", American Psychiatric Association; 2000
- Comparisons of Discrete-Trial and Normalized Behavioral Language Intervention for Young Children with Autism
