Understanding Autism: Characteristics and Support Strategies

Understanding Autism

Autism, known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that impacts how you communicate, learn, and interact with others. It is linked to differences in brain function, which can affect your behavior and social skills.

This condition is typically identified before the age of three and continues throughout your life. Since it is a spectrum disorder, autism can manifest in various ways and to differing extents.

Individuals with autism often face challenges in these areas:

Communication: Connecting with others can be tough. You might find it difficult to express your thoughts, feelings, or needs, whether using spoken words, gestures, or facial expressions.

Learning: Learning abilities can vary greatly. For example, you may struggle with verbal communication but excel in areas like art, music, or math. It’s common to have uneven skill development, showing strengths in specific tasks while needing more support in others.

Transitions: Adjusting to changes in your daily routine can be challenging. Sudden shifts may lead to stress or discomfort.

Sensory Stimulation: Responses to sensory input, like sounds, lights, or textures, can differ. You might be more sensitive to certain sensations or become deeply focused on specific interests.

More children are diagnosed with autism today than in the past. This increase may be due to greater awareness and changes in diagnostic methods, rather than an actual rise in cases. Ongoing research is exploring how genetics, environment, and biological aspects relate to autism.

Sometimes, adults discover they have autism when symptoms are mild and did not significantly affect their earlier lives. Early intervention is key, as it can improve development in children with ASD, leading to better functioning in adulthood.

Autism Functioning Labels

Autism presents unique challenges and strengths for each individual. While some people use the terms “high-functioning” and “low-functioning” to categorize autism, these labels can sometimes be hurtful and do not fully capture the individual experience.

Low-functioning Autism
Around 30% of those with autism may have an intellectual disability. This can result in the need for assistance with daily activities and challenges in living independently. This group is often labeled as having “low-functioning autism.”

High-functioning Autism
Those with high-functioning autism may show fewer visible symptoms. They often excel in academic settings and communicate well. This group is sometimes referred to as “high-functioning autism” or previously known as Asperger syndrome.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines three severity levels of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the DSM-5. These levels help determine the type of support a person might need:

Level 1: Requires support

Level 2: Requires substantial support
Level 3: Requires very substantial support

Instead of using functioning labels, consider saying someone has “more significant” or “less significant” needs. It is best to ask individuals with autism or their caregivers how they prefer to discuss their condition.

Signs of Autism

Symptoms of autism commonly appear before the age of three, with some individuals showing signs from birth.

Common Symptoms:

Limited Eye Contact: You may notice a child avoids making eye contact with others.

Focused Interests: An intense interest in specific topics or a narrow range of hobbies is typical.
Repetitive Actions: This includes repeating words or phrases, rocking back and forth, or fidgeting with objects like light switches.
Sensory Sensitivity: People can be highly sensitive to sounds, touches, smells, or sights that others find normal.

Social Withdrawal: A tendency to not look or listen to others when they speak is common.
Ignoring Pointing: Not tracking where someone points or showing interest in those items can occur.
Dislike of Physical Affection: Some may resist being held or cuddled.

Communication Challenges: Difficulties arise in understanding or using speech, gestures, facial expressions, or tone of voice.
Unique Speech Patterns: Individuals might speak in a robotic, flat, or sing-song manner.
Difficulty with Changes: A struggle to adapt to changes in routine is frequent.

Seizures can occur in some people with autism, typically starting in the teenage years.

Symptoms in Adults:

As individuals grow, symptoms may shift. Common signs you might notice include:

Understanding Emotions: Difficulty interpreting what others are feeling or thinking.
Social Preferences: You may prefer solitude and find it hard to make friends.
Social Anxiety: Experiencing nervousness during social activities is common.

Routine-Oriented: You might need a consistent daily routine and feel upset if changes occur.
Expressing Feelings: Difficulty in sharing your emotions is a frequent symptom.
Literal Interpretations: Many take comments at face value and might miss sarcasm.

Unintended Bluntness: Sometimes, communication may come off as rude or uninterested.

Additional signs include:

Avoidance of Eye Contact: You might avoid making eye contact in social situations.

Misreading Social Cues: Understanding social norms can be tricky.
Personal Space Issues: Difficulty with physical boundaries, whether needing space or feeling uncomfortable when others are too close.
Focused Interests: A strong interest in particular subjects and picking up on details that others overlook.

Planning: You might prefer to plan intensely before carrying out tasks.

Symptoms in Children:

Children exhibit unique signs, including:

Lack of Response: Not responding to their name by 9 months.
Missing Expressions: Not showing facial expressions by 9 months of age.
No Interest in Games: Not engaging in simple games like pat-a-cake by 12 months.

Limited Gestures: Not using gestures, such as waving, by 12 months.
Emotional Understanding: Not recognizing when others are sad or angry by 24 months.
Isolation from Peers: Not wanting to play with other children by 36 months.

Expressive Activities: Not singing, dancing, or acting by 60 months.
Toys in Order: Lining up toys in a specific way and becoming upset by changes.
Obsessive Interests: Demonstrating strong fixations on certain topics or objects.

Repetitive Movements: Engaging in rocking, hand flapping, or spinning.
Delays: Experiencing delays in language, movement, learning, or cognition.
Eating and Sleeping Issues: Having unusual habits related to food or sleep.

Fear Responses: Displaying more or less fear than expected in various situations.

Stimming Behavior:

Stimming involves self-stimulatory behavior, including hand flapping, spinning, or jumping. It can also include repetitive actions like flicking a rubber band or touching different textures. You may do these activities to relieve boredom, cope with stress, or manage sensory overload.

Meltdowns:

Sometimes, overwhelming situations can lead to a meltdown. This response is more than just a tantrum; it is a reaction from the nervous system that is beyond control. During a meltdown, a person may cry, scream, or display physical actions like kicking or biting. They may completely shut down and become unresponsive.

To support someone experiencing a meltdown, it’s helpful to give them space, treat them with respect, and create a safe environment.

Different Forms of Autism

You may come across several terms that used to describe specific kinds of autism, but these terms are now considered outdated. All these conditions are part of what is now called autism spectrum disorders. Here are some of the previous classifications:

Asperger Syndrome: Children diagnosed with this often have average or above-average intelligence. They might struggle with social interactions and may fixate on certain topics.
Autistic Disorder: This is the most recognized form of autism. It impacts a child’s ability to interact socially, communicate, and play, typically before the age of three.

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder: This rare condition starts with normal development for at least two years, followed by significant loss of language and social skills.
Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD): This term may be used if a child shows some autistic behaviors and has delays in social or communication skills but does not fully meet criteria for other categories.

What Leads to Autism?

The exact causes of autism are not well understood. It may be linked to issues in brain areas that handle sensory input and language processing. Autism can affect anyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, or social status. Factors such as family income, lifestyle, or education do not change a child’s risk of developing autism.

Some known risk factors include:

Having older parents
Being male or assigned male at birth; boys are about four times more likely to have autism than girls

Having a sibling with autism
Genetic conditions, like fragile X, Rett, and Down syndromes
Very low birth weight

Is Autism Passed Down in Families?

Autism often runs in families, suggesting that genetics play a role. Certain gene combinations may raise a child’s risk of autism. Research has identified changes in over 1,000 genes that may be connected to autism, but not all findings are confirmed. The genetic risk of autism can range from 40% to 80%, depending on your unique genetic makeup and environment.

Additionally, rare gene mutations or chromosome issues may be the main cause for about 2% to 4% of individuals with autism. This is commonly seen in conditions like ADNP syndrome, where autism symptoms appear alongside distinct facial features.

Many genes linked to autism relate to how the brain develops. This connection might explain why autism often involves challenges in communication, social interaction, and cognitive skills.

Do Vaccines Trigger Autism?

Research has shown that vaccines do not cause autism. Despite some concerns, numerous studies confirm no link between the two. Experts have reviewed the safety of vaccines for both children and adults, finding them largely safe, with only rare exceptions. Examining vaccine ingredients has also revealed no connection to autism. Vaccines play a crucial role in preventing diseases and their benefits far outweigh any potential risks.

Autism Testing

Getting a clear diagnosis of autism can be challenging. Doctors focus on observing behavior and development in order to provide an accurate assessment.

For children, the diagnosis often involves two main steps:

Developmental Screening: This screening helps your doctor determine if your child is meeting key skills like learning, talking, behaving, and moving. Health experts advise that children should be screened for developmental delays during regular checkups at 9, 18, and 24 or 30 months. Pediatricians specifically check for autism during the 18-month and 24-month appointments.

Comprehensive Evaluation: If a screening shows potential concerns, a more thorough assessment is needed. You can request an autism evaluation through your state’s early intervention office without needing a doctor’s referral. A trained expert, such as a child psychologist or a developmental-behavioral pediatrician, will evaluate multiple aspects to determine if your child has autism. During this process, the specialist will ask detailed questions about your child’s development, behavior, and communication skills. They will also conduct various tests to assess your child’s cognitive, language, and self-care abilities, like eating and dressing. Observing your child’s behavior is a crucial part of this evaluation. Additionally, a speech-language pathologist or occupational therapist may be involved based on your specific concerns. Your doctor may also suggest hearing and vision tests or genetic testing. These elements help form an accurate diagnosis.

If you did not receive an autism diagnosis during childhood but notice signs that affect your life, it’s important to consult your doctor. You might be referred to a specialist who can assist you in understanding your symptoms and evaluating if you are on the autism spectrum.

Next Steps After an Autism Diagnosis

Receiving an autism diagnosis can bring a range of feelings. Taking time to absorb the information is essential. Here are some steps to consider:

Understand Your Diagnosis: Allow yourself to process the diagnosis fully. Recognize that it’s normal to have a mix of emotions. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor if you have questions or need support. Life can continue as usual, even after the diagnosis.
Research Information: Dive into resources about autism. A wealth of information is available online, but focusing on credible sources can help you start your journey of understanding.
Connect with Others: Seek out blogs, books, or videos by individuals with autism. Personal stories can provide valuable insights and help you learn more about the condition.

Find Support: If you or your child feel isolated after receiving the diagnosis, it’s helpful to look for support networks. National organizations, local support groups, your doctor, or even connections on social media can offer assistance. Schools and workplaces may also have resources to help navigate your situation.
Monitor for Other Health Concerns: Autism itself isn’t an illness, but many individuals with autism may experience additional conditions like ADHD or dyslexia. If you have health concerns about yourself or your child, communicate openly with your doctor to address these issues.

Taking these steps can help you manage your situation more effectively and enhance your overall quality of life.

Treatments for Autism

If you or your child has autism, it is important to know that early intervention can lead to better development. The treatment plan should be personalized to fit individual needs, as what works for one person may not work for another. Here are the main types of treatments available:

Behavioral Therapy: This type of therapy focuses on helping individuals understand their behaviors and the effects these behaviors have. It aims to reduce unwanted behaviors by promoting positive actions.

Developmental Therapy: This includes various therapies designed to improve essential skills:

Speech Therapy: Enhances communication abilities.
Physical Therapy: Works on improving physical movement and coordination.
Occupational Therapy: Teaches life skills like dressing, grooming, and feeding.

Psychological Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one approach used to help individuals cope with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges associated with autism.

Educational Support: This treatment modifies teaching methods to support the unique learning styles of those with autism, ensuring they can succeed in school.

Social and Relational Skills Development: These programs concentrate on enhancing social interactions and building emotional connections.

Medication: Some medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms such as attention difficulties, hyperactivity, or anxiety.

In addition to these primary treatments, complementary therapies can support learning and communication. These may include music therapy, art therapy, and animal-assisted therapy, such as horseback riding.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a well-recognized method aimed at encouraging constructive behaviors while discouraging negative ones. Both the U.S. Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association acknowledge ABA as a proven intervention for improving skills and functioning in many children with autism.

It’s important to understand that ABA is flexible. A qualified ABA therapist will create a customized plan to meet the specific requirements of your child. Be sure to discuss with your doctor if ABA is an appropriate choice for your situation.

Caution with Treatments

Be wary of any treatment that claims to “cure” autism. Currently, there is no known cure, and some advertised treatments may not be effective. Furthermore, some can be harmful. Avoid the following questionable treatments:

Raw camel’s milk

GcMAF (an unapproved injection made from blood cells)
CEASE therapy (avoiding vaccines and using potentially dangerous supplements)
Chlorine dioxide (CD) or Miracle Mineral Solution (MMS)

Certain vitamins and minerals
Secretin (a hormone from your body)
Chelation (using chemicals to remove heavy metals from the blood)

To help identify unreliable treatments, watch for these warning signs:

Claims of being a “cure” or “miracle” solution.
Lack of availability on respected health sites.

High cost with little evidence of effectiveness.
Promises of instant results for many people.
Anecdotal evidence instead of scientific data.

Suggestions that laypeople can administer treatments without training.
Claims of curing multiple unrelated conditions.

Being informed and cautious can help you choose the right treatments for autism. Working closely with your healthcare provider will ensure you find the best options for you or your child.

Nutrition and Autism

Autism is a complicated brain condition. While many parents wonder about the effects of special diets on children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it is important to note that there is no solid evidence supporting the idea that these diets make a significant difference. Always consult your doctor before changing your child’s diet.

Some children with autism may seem to be very particular about what they eat. For example, they might:

Prefer foods of a specific color or texture

Eat too little or too much
Consume non-food items

These eating habits can lead to digestive issues, like constipation, which may leave them feeling full even if they haven’t eaten enough. Some may also experience coughing or gagging while eating.

Making changes to your child’s diet without careful thought could potentially lead to unwanted results. For instance, children with autism often have weaker bones, and dairy products provide essential nutrients that help build stronger bones. Research on a milk protein called casein shows that it does not significantly alter autism symptoms in most children, whether they consume it or not.

That said, some dietary adjustments might alleviate specific symptoms. For example, if your child has food allergies, eliminating those allergens could help improve certain behaviors.

It is crucial that your child’s diet meet their unique nutritional requirements and address their ASD symptoms. The best approach is to collaborate with your doctor and a qualified nutrition expert, such as a registered dietitian. They can help you create a personalized meal plan.

Children with autism may also experience digestive difficulties, such as constipation or stomach pain. A healthcare provider can recommend a suitable diet that does not exacerbate these problems.

Supplements and Nutrition

Some research indicates that individuals with autism might have lower levels of certain vitamins and minerals. These deficiencies do not cause autism, but your doctor might suggest supplements to boost nutrition. Commonly recommended supplements include vitamin B and magnesium. Be cautious with dosages, as too much can be harmful.

Remember that dietary needs can change as your child grows. A dietitian can assist in modifying their diet to ensure it remains suitable as they age.

Ways to Support Your Child With Autism

To improve communication, try these strategies:

Use their name to grab their attention.
Speak slowly and clearly to make your words easier to understand.

Stick to simple language to avoid confusion.
Allow your child extra time to process what you say.
Incorporate gestures, pictures, or eye contact to enhance understanding.

Avoid these situations:

Noisy or crowded areas for conversations.
Figurative language, like “break a leg,” which can be confusing.

Asking too many questions at once.

Many children with autism struggle with sleep. Here are some tips to promote better sleep quality:

Maintain a sleep diary to track any patterns or issues.

Establish a consistent bedtime routine each night.
Consider earplugs if they help block out noise.
Ensure their bedroom is dark and quiet for better sleeping conditions.

Consult with a doctor if sleep problems persist.

For social skills development, consider these approaches:

Inquire at your child’s school for support.

Seek advice from your autism care team for tailored tips.
Check the National Autism Society directory for local social groups.
Connect with other parents for shared experiences and insights.

Remember:

Don’t push your child into social activities if they prefer solitude.
Allow them the time needed to build their social skills naturally.

Differences in Autism Care

Some groups of people experience autism in unique ways. This can lead to unequal access to diagnosis, treatment, and support. It’s essential to recognize these disparities to ensure everyone gets the care they need, regardless of gender, race, or sexual orientation.

Autism in Women

Women may display different signs of autism than men. For example, many autistic women tend to:

Hide their feelings.
Behave more quietly in social settings.
Imitate those without autism to blend in better.
Appear to handle social situations more effectively.
Show fewer repetitive behaviors.

Doctors may have limited knowledge about diagnosing women with autism. Most of the existing guidelines focus on symptoms observed in men, making it more challenging to identify autism in girls and women. This can lead to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis for them. Recently, as more experts recognize these differences, the gap in diagnosis rates between men and women is narrowing.

Racial and Ethnic Differences

The CDC has tracked autism diagnoses since 2000. Recent studies reveal that more Black and Hispanic children receive autism diagnoses compared to white children. However, these racial and ethnic groups often face significant barriers to accessing autism services. Contributing factors include:

Geographic location.
Economic challenges.

Autism and LGBTQ+ Communities

Research indicates that individuals with autism are more likely to be part of the LGBTQ+ community compared to those without autism. Autistic individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ may face discrimination, health care difficulties, violence, and cultural stigmas. These challenges can worsen mental health issues for LGBTQ+ individuals, who are already more vulnerable to such complications.

Key Points

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition impacting communication, behavior, and social skills.
Signs of autism typically appear before age 3, but diagnosis can happen later.
The impact of ASD varies among individuals, with different levels of severity.
There is no known cure for autism; however, early support can make a difference.
Therapies such as developmental, behavioral, and speech therapy, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), are beneficial.
If you have concerns regarding development, consult with a doctor to explore screening and support options.

Autism FAQs

Can children with autism lead normal lives?
Children with autism may express themselves, behave, and learn differently than other children. With the right support, they can harness their strengths and manage their challenges, allowing them to live fulfilling lives.

What does autism level 2 mean?
The DSM-5 classifies autism into three levels, based on the support needed. A person with level 2 autism requires significant support to help with daily activities and social interactions.

What does the autism testing process involve?
There isn’t a single test for autism. Instead, a qualified child development expert assesses autism through a thorough evaluation. This includes watching your child, talking with you, and using tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) to understand your child’s development, behavior, and communication skills.

What is life like for someone with autism?
Each person’s experience with autism is distinct. Some individuals excel in certain areas of learning while facing difficulties with communication or social interactions. Others might struggle with routines due to specific behaviors that can be repetitive or restrictive.

How can you better connect with someone with autism?
Engage directly with the individual or their caregiver to learn about their unique strengths and needs. Understanding their communication styles, sensory sensitivities, and personal boundaries can enhance interactions and promote mutual respect.