What is Autism?

What is Autism?

April marks Autism Awareness Month. Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) refers to a broad range of conditions that are characterized by challenges in social skills, repetitive behaviors, and communication.

Autism is a lifelong condition that affects each person differently. Individuals with autism present a wide spectrum of abilities, each with a distinct set of strengths and challenges that may change over time. While some people with autism can live independently, others require lifelong support and care.

Autism can affect anyone, regardless of their sex, age, race, or ethnicity. However, research from the CDC (2023) found that boys are diagnosed with autism four times more often than girls.

While early intervention and therapies can lead to improved outcomes later in life, societal attitudes and the level of support provided to persons with autism are also important factors in determining their quality of life.

Therefore, as we continue to promote awareness of autism, let us work together to support individuals with autism by advocating for their inclusion, celebrating their diverse abilities, and ensuring that they have access to the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives.


Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Different Signs and Stages

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. It's called a spectrum disorder because it manifests differently in everyone, ranging from mild to severe.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, here are some common signs and stages associated with autism:

*Social Communication Challenges*: People with autism may struggle with verbal and nonverbal communication. This can include difficulty in understanding social cues, maintaining eye contact, and engaging in reciprocal conversation. In some cases, they may have delayed language development or speak in a flat or unusual tone of voice.

• Does not respond to name by 9 months of age.
• Does not show facial expressions like happy, sad, angry, and surprised by 9 months of age.

*Repetitive Behaviors*: Many individuals with autism exhibit repetitive behaviors or rituals. This might involve repetitive movements like hand-flapping or body rocking, insistence on sameness or routine, and intense interest in specific topics.

• Lines up toys or other objects and gets upset when the order is changed.
• Flaps hands, rocks body, or spins self in circles

*Sensory Sensitivities*: Sensory sensitivities are common in individuals with autism. They may be hypersensitive (being over-responsive) or hypo-sensitive (being under-responsive) to sensory stimuli such as lights, sounds, textures, or smells. Certain sensations that may not bother others could be overwhelming or painful for someone with autism.

• Delayed language skills
• Hyperactive, impulsive, and/or inattentive behavior

*Difficulty with Changes:* People with autism often find it challenging to cope with changes in routines or environments. They may become distressed or anxious when faced with unexpected changes, and they may rely on familiar routines to feel secure.

• Anxiety, stress, or excessive worry
• Lack of fear or more fear than expected.

Autism is typically diagnosed in early childhood, but the severity of symptoms and the stage at which they become noticeable can vary widely. Some children may exhibit signs of autism as early as infancy, while others may not show significant symptoms until later in childhood when social demands increase.


What Autism is NOT!

While we have learned over the past few weeks what Autism is, it’s equally important that we understand what Autism is not. So, for this Feature Friday, we are dispelling some of the myths and misconceptions about this condition.

Firstly, autism is not an illness or disease. Rather, it is something that a person is born with that simply means their brain works differently than non-autistic people. Therefore, autism isn’t something to be cured or fixed, but rather something to be understood and accepted.

Secondly, because autism exists on a spectrum, it is not the same for everyone. No two autistic people will experience autism the same way, therefore, everyone with the condition may need varying degrees of support.

Thirdly, while the cause of Autism isn’t fully understood or known, it is important to know that it isn’t caused by a specific parenting style. Even though supportive parenting styles can help an autistic child cope with the world, there is no scientific evidence that parenting style is a cause of the condition.

Lastly, autism isn’t something a person “grows out of”, instead, it is a lifelong condition. While some may grow into adulthood not needing the same level of support as they did when they were younger, others may need support throughout their lives. Still, with the right support, every autistic person can go on to live a full life.


5 Ways on How to Support Autistic Persons

Supporting autistic individuals is not just about addressing their challenges; it's about embracing their unique perspectives and abilities. Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that manifests differently in each individual, impacting social interaction, communication, and sensory processing. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of creating inclusive environments that accommodate the diverse needs of autistic persons. This preamble explores five key ways to support autistic individuals effectively, promoting acceptance, understanding, and empowerment. From sensory accommodations to communication support, respecting individual preferences to providing access to resources, these strategies aim to foster environments where autistic individuals can thrive and contribute their valuable insights to society.

Promote Acceptance and Inclusion: Foster an environment that embraces neurodiversity and values the strengths and abilities of autistic individuals. Encourage inclusive practices in schools, workplaces, and communities to ensure that autistic persons feel accepted and valued.

Provide Sensory Support: Many autistic individuals have sensory sensitivities or differences. Offer accommodations such as noise-canceling headphones, sensory-friendly environments, or designated quiet spaces to help them manage sensory overload and feel more comfortable in different settings.

Offer Communication Support: Recognize that communication styles vary among autistic individuals. Use clear and direct language, visual aids, or alternative communication methods such as picture schedules or AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices to facilitate effective communication and understanding.

Respect Individual Preferences and Boundaries: Understand that autistic individuals may have preferences or boundaries related to social interaction, routines, or sensory experiences. Respect their autonomy and allow them to express their needs and preferences without judgment. Avoid forcing them into uncomfortable situations or expecting them to conform to neurotypical norms.

Provide Access to Resources and Services: Connect autistic individuals and their families with relevant resources, support groups, therapy services, and educational programs. Ensure access to accommodations and reasonable adjustments in educational and workplace settings to support their learning and professional success.

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Signs and Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder. 2023, https://www.cdc.gov/autism/about/index.html.

National Institute of Mental Health. Autism Spectrum Disorder. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2023, https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/autism-spectrum-disorder.

American Psychological Association. Autism Spectrum Disorder. 2023, https://www.apa.org/topics/autism-spectrum-disorder

Autism Speaks. What is Autism? 2023, www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism.