What is Autism?

Autism, also referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), refers to a number of conditions that relate to communication, social skills, and other facets of the human condition.

There’s still much professionals are learning about autism, but at this point, estimates indicate 1 in 36 children in the United States will be diagnosed with it.

When someone has autism, they may be referred to as being “on the spectrum.” This refers to the fact that autism isn’t the same for everyone.

Whether you believe your child may have it or just want to know more about a condition that impacts millions of people, here are some of the basics of what to know.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental difference.

Typically, individuals with ASD are challenged by their interactions with others and communicating, but they may also exhibit repetitive behaviors or display passionate interests in niche subjects.

It may be more difficult for people with ASD to learn in traditional settings, and ASD also varies significantly from one person to the next.

ASD exists on a spectrum and/or spectrum wheel where some people only exhibit mild symptoms, while others can have autism more severely and require more extensive therapy to learn how to interact with the world.

What is the Autism Spectrum?

When someone has autism, they may be referred to as being “on the spectrum.” This refers to the fact that autism isn’t the same for everyone.

Some people may have communication issues or even be nonverbal. Others may exhibit anxiety in social settings and avoid eye contact.

It’s different for everyone, so professionals view the condition on a spectrum.

There are many misconceptions online about what causes autism. Ultimately, autism is a result of a myriad of genetic and environmental factors.

The autism spectrum refers to the specific collection of developmental or behavioral issues and challenges a person with ASD lives with.

Being on the spectrum simply means a person has autism to a degree, but that degree varies meaningfully person to person.

Common Autism Symptoms

Autism can be difficult to diagnose because it manifests differently in everyone.

But there are certain common symptoms that have been identified.

Avoiding Eye Contact

Individuals with autism typically have trouble in social scenarios.

They may not talk a lot, or they may feel anxiety.

This tends to manifest physically as having trouble looking other people in the eyes.

Diagnosing autism can be difficult because there’s no medical test, like taking a sample of blood. Instead, diagnosticians look at an individual’s developmental history as well as any extenuating behaviors to determine if autism is present.

Repetitive Behaviors

People with autism may like and seek routine.

They may have a certain order they want to do things.

Obsessive Interests

Autism can also be indicated by a person having niche interests.

They may become obsessed with a certain topic and want to learn everything about it.

This can be accompanied by having difficulty taking an interest in anything else.

Causes of Autism

There are many misconceptions online about what causes autism. Ultimately, it is likely a blend of many factors.

These factors can be grouped into genetic factors and environmental factors.

Diagnosing Autism

Diagnosing autism can be difficult because there’s no medical test, like taking a sample of blood.

Instead, diagnosticians look at an individual’s developmental history as well as any extenuating behaviors to determine if autism is present.

While autism can sometimes be diagnosed as early as 18 months, many tests are considered reliable at two years.

There’s also late-stage diagnosis, which impacts teenagers and adults.

In these instances, the person may have noticed some autism symptoms on their own.

Treating Autism

There is presently no cure for autism, but it can be treated so that people with the condition can better manage their lives.

Numerous treatment options are available, including:

Speech-language therapy
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
ABA Therapy
Joint attention therapy
Educational and school-based therapies
Social skills training

Regardless of what treatment is best for your child, it’s important to start as soon as possible.

Early intervention can help children meaningfully with their most pressing challenges.

Additional Autism FAQs

Is Autism a Disability?

The Americans with Disabilities Act defines autism as a disability.

As such, certain individuals with autism can qualify for assistance.

However, autism is better defined as a “neurological developmental difference.” Many people have autism who go about and live regular lives, going to school and working normal jobs.

What is the First Indicator of Autism?

The first signs of autism vary by person. However, a lack of joint attention may be an early indicator.

This is when a child is able to connect a person with an event, drawing a correlation between the two, which is essential for neurological development.

Speech delays and an inability to gesture can also serve as early indicators.

What are Signs of Mild Autism?

Since autism is a spectrum, some people may barely be affected by it.

A person with ASD may only get milder symptoms, such as difficulty maintaining eye contact, a fixation on certain activities, or reluctance to socialize.

Irrespective of whether symptoms or mild or elevated, even milder symptoms can still benefit from therapies.

What is High-Functioning Autism?

High-functioning autism is an informal term to refer to individuals with autism who are able to write, read, speak, and deal with basic life skills, such as eating, without further assistance.

They may not require any additional aid, but they have challenges in social situations or have niche hobbies.