Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, is a neurologic disorder which causes complex developmental disabilities in social interaction and communication skills. Autism is called a spectrum disorder because it has varying degrees that affect children differently. Symptoms may be mild or severe. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that an average of one in 110 children in the United States has an ASD, with the greatest prevalence occurring in boys. ASD typically presents itself prior to 3 years of age.
Effects on Language
In the June 2009 issue of “American Nurse Today," authors Edward Hoffman, Ph.D., and Kathleen Taylor, MPH, MSN RN, discuss the symptoms of autism. Impaired language development is a significant symptom. Children may exhibit delay in language development or may have peculiar speech patterns, such as repeating words or sounds. This abnormality is called echolalia. Children with an ASD may use words nonsensically or have a monotone manner of speaking. The CDC, in its 2009 “Autism Fact Sheet," reports that children with an ASD may not respond to their names. This is a growth and development milestone normally seen in children by 12 months of age.
Impaired Social Interaction
Social interaction impairments exhibited by children with an ASD include poor eye contact and an indifference to social interaction, disinterest in family members or other children, and an inability to understand other people’s feelings. Abnormal behaviors that interfere with social interaction include impulsive behavior, frequent crying or temper tantrums and unusually strong attachment to inanimate objects, such as strings or spinning objects. By 18 months, a child should engage in “pretend” play; however, a child with an ASD may not.
Need for Routine
Children with an ASD often need rigidly structured routines in order to function. Changes in routine may lead to extreme reactions, such as uncontrolled crying, screaming, tantrums or self-injury.
Repetitive Body Movements
Parents should observe for repetitive body movements when assessing for an ASD. Affected children may rock back and forth, spin in circles, pace or exhibit hand flapping and finger flicking.
Sensory Impairment
Children with an ASD may show abnormal reactions to light, sound, touch, pain and temperature extremes. Responses range from hypersensitive to no response at all. Safety is a concern, because children with an ASD have a decreased fear of danger.
Other Disabilities
According to the CDC, children diagnosed with autism may have other genetic disorders, such as Fragile X syndrome or Down syndrome. It is difficult to make a diagnosis of autism when these types of disorders are present. In these cases, autism symptoms are typically severe.
References
- Centers for Disease Control: Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Centers for Disease Control: Facts About ASDs
- “American Nurse Today"; Are We Making Progress Against Autism?; Edward Hoffman, Ph.D., & Kathleen Taylor, MSN RN; June 2009
