Autism is a neurological developmental delay that impacts each individual differently. It is commonly called an autism spectrum disorder because the symptoms and signs vary so widely. Autism impacts a person's ability to interact socially and communicate with others. Symptoms of autism can improve greatly with the help of early intervention and therapies.
Identification of Autism
Early identification of autism is key to getting proper treatment. Common signs of autism in a toddler are a lack of language, social interactions or repetitive behaviors. There can also be little or no eye contact, fixation on topics or objects, repetitive actions such as spinning a toy or lack of interest in playing with others. A parents' observation of these characteristics can help a doctor best diagnose the disorder.
Size of Autism in America
Autism impacts one in every 150 children in the United States. There is a higher rate of autism in boys than girls. A report issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2007 found one in 94 boys with autism.
Types of Autism
There is a wide spectrum of autism, from classic to Asperger's. Classic autism has a severe delay or lack in language, repetitive motions such as rocking or hand flapping and social isolation. High-functioning autism responds more quickly to treatments and therapies than a person with classic autism. Asperger's syndrome is a close cousin to autism. A person with Asperger's usually does not lack language, but does have difficulty with the back-and-forth nature of communication or talks endlessly on one topic.
Therapies for Autism
The most common therapies for autism are speech, occupational or behavioral therapy, according to Autism Speaks. Since the 1960s, Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) has been used for people with autism to positively reinforce desired behaviors. Floortime and Verbal Behavior Intervention are two common alternatives to ABA. Dietary interventions are growing in popularity, especially a gluten-free, casein-free diet. See Resources for more treatments for autism.
Theories on Causes
While there is no known cause for autism, there are some theories on contributing factors that put a person at risk. There seems to be a genetic predisposition for autism, plus environmental factors that make a person at higher risk.
