What is Autism

Autism is a developmental disability that affects, often severely, a person's ability to communicate and socially interact with others. It is four times more prevalent in males than females.

Currently, autism is believed to affect 1 in every 166 people. The rate of people being diagnosed with autism has increased substantially over the past two decades. Although this may be in part due to improved diagnostic techniques and to changes in the criteria for autism spectrum disorders (see below), the majority of experts agree these changes are not enough to explain the epidemic rates at which autism is being diagnosed.

Autism Spectrum Disorders is an umbrella term that includes classic autism (also known as Kanner's autism or Kanner's syndrome), Asperger's syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder (PDD). Autism is considered a spectrum disorder because the number and intensity of the symptoms people with autism display may vary widely. However, all people with autism demonstrate impairments in the following three areas: communication, social relationships and restricted patterns of behavior.

The spectrum ranges from those who are severely affected, less able, and dependent on others to those who are of above-average intelligence and independent, yet lacking in social skills.

Diagnosing Autism

Currently, there is no single medical test that will definitively diagnose autism. Instead, the diagnosis is made on the basis of observable characteristics of the individual.

Because most children start showing symptoms of autism at about 18-24 months, British researchers have developed a screening tool called the Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (CHAT) CHAT - please click here for more information). The CHAT (which takes five minutes to administer) has been shown to be highly effective in predicting which children will develop autism, PDD, Asperger's or other developmental syndromes.

Before embarking on any sort of diagnosis, however, it is important to rule out possible physical causes for an individual's behavior. Please consult your physician or pediatrician if you have concerns about a family member or friend.

back to top

Treating Autism

There is no single "cure" for autism, and no one treatment that works for every child. Some treatments and therapies used to help individuals with autism have research proving their efficacy, others do not. Some treatments are specific to individuals exhibiting very specific characteristics. What works for one child may not work for another.

It is therefore important that parents and professionals investigate the claims of the various treatments they see offered, and that they evaluate the potential risk or value to the person who has autism.

back to top

Living with Autism

Living with a child who has autism often means readjusting our expectations of our family, both in terms of the normal, day-to-day and of special events and occasions.

Sometimes, families with a child with an ASD find themselves isolated from others, either because the parents are overwhelmed and too tired to do anything, or because they are worried or embarrassed by what their child may potentially do (or not do) in a social situation. Parents or other caregivers may find themselves becoming depressed, or withdrawing from civic, religious or recreational activities they once enjoyed.

Teaching your child basic social and communication skills and finding support to get challenging behaviors under control will make life easier for everyone in your family. If you child is non-verbal, teach him or her a visual communications system such as PECS. Your child will be less frustrated and gain confidence, knowing their needs are being understood. Visual schedules are helpful for letting a child know what will happen next. You may also want to consider getting your child to participate in family life by giving them simple chores (sorting silverware often appeals to children with autism). With a few alterations and solid supports in place, you can begin to build a new kind of family life.

back to top