The prevalence of autism spectrum disorders is one in 100 children. With the diagnosis of autism on the rise, parents might wonder if their child could possibly have this disorder. Autism spectrum disorders are composed of abnormalities in the areas of social skills, behavior and communication. Deficiencies in all three areas must be noted for the diagnosis of autism to be made. Various checklists have been developed to help caregivers and professionals identify children with the disorder.
Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers
The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers is referred to as the M-CHAT and was developed for toddlers between 16 and 30 months of age to assess their risk of autism spectrum disorders. Because it was created to help identify all possible cases of autism, it is a very sensitive test. This means that not all children who score high on this checklist will actually have an autism spectrum disorder. It is available at www.mchatscreen.com. If a child does not fail the M-CHAT but a parent or health care provider still suspects an abnormality, the child should be referred on for further testing.
American Psychiatric Society Criteria
The American Psychiatric Society's “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition” also lists criteria for the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders. Again, these criteria include impairments in three areas. A positive diagnosis requires qualitative impairment in social interaction, impairment in communication and restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior.
Social Skills
Failure to exhibit the following social skills may indicate autism:
Does the child make eye contact?
Does the child respond to a smile?
Does the child bring an object to show you?
Does the child show concern or others?
Does the child show facial expression?
Does the child like to cuddle?
Communication Skills
Red flags for autism include failure in the following communication skills:
Does the child say single words by 15 months or two-word phrases by 24 months?
Does the child respond to his called name?
Does the child start a conversation about different topics?
Does the child continue to progress in speech without losing language skills?
Bahavioral Changes
Behavioral abnormalities in autistic children may include the following:
Does the child frequently rock, spin, flap hands or sway?
Does the child need to follow a routine or ritual?
Is the child obsessed with a few activities or interests?
Does the child fail to feel pain?
Does the child move constantly?
References
- "American Family Physician"; Primary Care for Children With Autism; Feb. 15, 2010
- "Pediatrics"; Identification and Evaluation of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders; November 2007
- Mayo Clinic: Autism Symptoms
