Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disorder characterized by impaired development in social interaction, behavior and development. It affects a lot of children and their families, and is more prevalent in boys than girls. Autism spectrum disorder has been previously confused with childhood psychosis or childhood schizophrenia, and may also have been misinterpreted as schizotypal personality disorder in certain adults.
Parents of children may quickly discover the facts about autism spectrum disorder. But what about teachers, cousins, coaches and in-laws? Rarely does anyone beyond the immediate family want to reach more than 20 written pages from the National Institute of Health.
1. Autism Is A ‘Spectrum’ Disorder
People who suffer from autism can be very autistic or little autistic. This means, it’s possible to be retarded, non-verbal and autistic as well as be bright, verbally active and autistic. A disorder that is made up of such a range of symptoms is referred to as a spectrum disorder; and therefore the term “autism spectrum disorder.” Probably the most significant symptom is difficulty in social interaction and communication like conversation, eye contact, etc.
2. Asperger Syndrome Is A High-Functioning Type of Autism
As of May, 2013, Asperger Syndrome ceased to exist as a formal diagnosis according to the Diagnostic Manual for Mental Disorders. Despite this, the term still continues being used to describe a certain form of autism where people develop their speech on time, are verbal and bright but have certain social deficits. This explains the nickname “Greek Syndrome.”
3. People Suffering From Autism Differ From One Another
If you have seen a TV show about autism, you may believe that you have an idea of what autism looks like. The fact of the matter is that, if you’ve met a person with autism, then you’ve only met ONE person with autism. Autism affects people in different ways; some are silent while others are chatty. Many have gastrointestinal issues, sleep difficulties, sensory problems and other medical issues. Others may have delays on social communications and interactions.
4. There Several Treatment Options for Autism, But No Cure
As far as medical science is concerned, there currently isn’t a cure for autism. This doesn’t however mean that people suffering from autism do not improve, because many actually do. But even when they do improve their skills, they still remain autistic, meaning that they will still continue to perceive and think differently to most people. Children affected by autism normally undergo a variety of treatments. These treatment options may be sensory, biomedical, arts-based, developmental or behavioral. Depending on the child, and level of severity, some treatments will be more effective than others.
5. There are Several Theories and Myths on the Causes of Autism, But There Isn’t Consensus
It is possible that you may have heard different stories about the causes of autism. These theories may range from genetics to mercury in baby vaccines (for which there’s plenty evidence to discredit this theory) to the age of the parents when they conceived the child to almost every other thing. At the present moment, medical researchers and scientific experts suggest that autism is caused by a series combination of environmental and genetic factors. And it is very possible that symptoms among different people have different causes.
6. Children Rarely Overcome or Outgrow Autism
Autism is normally a lifelong condition. However, for people who receive early and intensive intervention, symptoms have been noted to decrease significantly, but the results differ largely and may not be the same for everyone. People affected with autism can learn various coping skills that may help them manage their difficulties effectively and even build-up on their individual strengths. But most people with autism will probably remain autistic for the rest of their lives.
7. Families Affected With Autism Need Help and Support
Even the highest-functioning of autism cases can be very challenging for any parent. Low functioning autism can also overwhelm the whole family. Families undergo a deal of stress, and they will need all the help they can get from extended family, service providers and friends. Interval care can be arranged so that everyone plays a part in taking care of people affected with the condition.
8. There Isn’t the ‘Best School’ For A Child With Autism
You may have heard of certain ‘autism schools’ or read about children doing exceptionally well in particular classroom settings. Although any classroom setting may be ideal for any child, each child with autism has their own specific and unique needs. Even the most rated of autism schools may not be the best for your child. Decisions regarding autistic education are normally made from a team comprising of parents, therapists, teachers and administrators who know and understand the child well.
9. There Are Many Untrue Myths And Perceptions About Autism
Many stories have been told about autism from the media and other sources, and many of those stories are far less than accurate. For instance, there have been myths that people affected by autism are unfeeling and cold, or that the same people have productive jobs, or never get married at all. Since people with autism are different, statements like “always” or “never” cannot be deemed true and accurate. To fully know and understand people with autism, it is always a good idea to spend more time with them and gain an understanding of their personality and way of life.
Although autism has largely had a negative perception, some people with autism spectrum syndrome have a great deal to offer, and they are among the most non-prejudice and passionate people you can ever meet.