Autism, now referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a spectrum of conditions that affect how one socializes and perceives others. Let's take a deeper look into its roots and nature.
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
ASD is a nonprogressive and lifelong neurological and developmental disorder. It is mainly caused by variations within the brain. While some individuals with ASD have a specifically known difference, other cases remain a mystery.
The term "autism" refers to a developmental disability that affects both verbal and non-verbal communication as well as social interaction. Classically, ASD involves a triad of impairments, namely, in communication and language use, in social interaction, and in limited imagination, which can be displayed in repetitive, stereotypical, and restricted behavior and activity patterns.
As implied by its name, ASD involves a spectrum. This means that symptoms may appear in various combinations and ranges. Though there are certain behaviors that are specifically exhibited in cases of ASD, both adults and children may vary in terms of degree of severity. This means that two children with ASD may still behave differently from each other.
People with ASD may also have different abilities. For example, some people with ASD could be nonverbal while others may have advanced skills in conversing. Others may require support in their daily life, while others may function with minimal or no support at all.
Generally, individuals with ASD may interact, communicate, learn and behave in different ways compared to the others. In a physical sense, there is typically nothing that sets them apart from others.
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Onset of Autism Spectrum Disorder
ASD typically starts before a child turns three years old and may persist throughout the child's entire lifetime. Some individuals exhibit symptoms of ASD within their first year of existence, while others may only exhibit symptoms after at least 24 months. There are some children with ASD who also accomplish developmental milestones until they reach 18 to 24 months, but then they stop learning new skills or end up losing skills when they reach such a point.
As these children with ASD grow to become adolescents and adults, they may have hardships in fostering and keeping friendships, communicating with others, and understanding expected behaviors in school or work.
ASD Treatment
Typical ASD treatment focuses on reducing symptoms that hamper quality of life and daily functioning. Each person with ASD is affected differently by the condition. Because of this, each person may face unique challenges and strengths and may also have different needs in treatment. Because of this, treatment plans tend to be tailored to fit the individual.
A notable treatment for children with ASD that focuses on behavior is known as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which discourages undesired behaviors and encourages desired behaviors in order to boost various skills. In such treatments, progress can be monitored and gauged.
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