Autism spectrum disorders include autism, pervasive developmental disorder and Asperger syndrome. More common in boys than girls, autism is a brain disorder rooted in the inability to communicate and interact with others.Though there is no cure, early recognition of the signs of autism can lead to better treatment and outcomes for the autistic child.
The American Psychiatric Association’s “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition” lists diagnostic criteria for autistic disorder. These criteria are categorized into three areas: impairments in social interaction, impairments in communication and restricted repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests and activities. These abnormalities are typically displayed before three years of age.
Communication Skills
Children with autism have diminished communication skills. By 24 months of age, a normal toddler should say simple two word phrases and be able to express desires by gesturing and pointing. An autistic child may have never developed this ability to convey emotions, or may have developed normal verbal skills, but then regressed. Another characteristic of the autistic toddler is repetitive speech. The child may parrot back conversation heard on television or spoken by caregivers, or may simply utter random words without any intent.
Regression
Approximately 25 percent of children with autism have a history of regression in language or other developmental areas between 15 and 24 months of age. These children will display normal development until about 18 months, but then stop talking, stop waving goodbye, or stop responding to their name when called. They may seem to withdraw and become less interested in their surroundings.
Social Skills
The autistic toddler may exhibit little interest in connecting with others and may be content to be alone. The child will have difficulty with cooperative games and group settings. Also, autistic children will likely avoid eye contact.
Behaviors
Toddlers with autism can demonstrate unusual behaviors, including peculiar mannerisms, strange attachments to unusual objects, obsessions and self-injuring behavior. They may display characteristic actions such as hand-flapping, rocking or twirling.
References
- "American Family Physician"; Primary Care for Children With Autism; February 15, 2010
- "Pediatrics"; Identification and Evaluation of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders; November 2007
