Understanding Autism

What is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex, lifelong developmental condition that typically appears during early childhood and can impact a person’s social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation. The Autism experience is different for everyone. It is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is often referred to as a “spectrum condition” that affects people differently and to varying degrees. While there is currently no known single cause of Autism, early diagnosis helps a person receive resources that can support the choices and opportunities needed to live fully.

How is Autism diagnosed?

Although Autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a “Developmental Disorder” because symptoms generally appear in the first 2 years of life. Autism is characterized in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5), which is used by clinicians to diagnose Autism.

Within the DSM-5, there are three main criteria:

• Difficulty with communication and interaction with others
• Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities
• Symptoms that affect the ability to function in school, work, and other areas of life

The DSM-5 criteria require that the core features of Autism be present in early childhood. However, for some children, the symptoms may not fully manifest until social demands exceed the person’s capacity to cope with them. In addition, challenges may be masked by learned coping strategies and support.

What Does an Autism Evaluation Include?

It's important to note that no single test diagnoses Autism. Clinicians typically combine:

• A detailed developmental history
• Interviews with parents or caregivers
• Direct observation of the child
• Standardized assessment tools
• Information from schools or other providers when available

This comprehensive evaluation helps determine whether the DSM-5 criteria are met and whether Autism best explains the child's developmental profile.

Autism Signs & Characteristics

Autism impacts an individual throughout the lifespan. However, research shows that early diagnosis can lead to improved quality of life. The behaviors of Autism may be apparent in infancy, but they usually become clearer during early childhood. As part of a regular health visit, your child’s doctor should perform developmental screenings focused on Autism. This screening is recommended at ages 18 and 24 months for all children.

Your doctor will encourage you to ask specific questions about your child’s developmental progress. The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) developed a detailed list of behaviors, listed in four categories: communication, social behavior, stereotyped behavior, and other behavior. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed a list of Signs and Symptoms, which can be found here.

— COMMON CHARACTERISTICS —

Recognizing the Signs of Autism

These characteristics vary widely and do not necessarily mean your child is Autistic. However, if your child is showing these behaviors, a screening is encouraged. Many families start by voicing their concerns with their child’s primary physician, with referrals being made to a specialist for further evaluation.

AUTISM

A culture.

A community.

A unique human experience.

—COLLABORATION INFO

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