Autism Disorder Characteristics
From LoveToKnow Autism
Given the dramatic rise in autism occurrences in recent years, learning the basic autism disorder characteristics is a wise precaution for every parent to take. Autism is diagnosed in approximately one of every 150 children these days, and affects boys nearly four times more often than girls. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a substantial difference in the future development and abilities of children with autism, so knowing the signs can be the best first step towards helping a child reach his or her greatest potential.
Basic Autism Disorder Characteristics
All autism types have certain basic, or core, characteristics in common, allowing this group of developmental disorders to be classified under the title of autism spectrum disorders. Communication impairments, such as speech delays and language skills deficits, are among those common characteristics. For example, children with autism may point and gesture rather than use words to indicate needs or wants. A small percentage of children with autism disorder will never speak, remaining completely non-verbal throughout their lives.
Non-verbal communication is frequently impaired as well, making it difficult for those with autism to understand non-verbal cues such as body posture, tone of voice, facial expressions or gestures. Those affected by autism can have great difficulty in maintaining eye contact with others, seem indifferent to attempts at interaction from family members and friends, and may resist attempts at physical contact, like hugging or cuddling.
Certain behavioral characteristics are common in those with autism, such as a rigid resistance to changes in routine. Strong, even obsessive attachments to certain toys, items, activities, or interests may be formed to the exclusion of all others. Structure and predictability can be a source of security for individuals with autism, and variations in daily routine or surroundings can be quite upsetting, causing stress and anxiety. Often, such upset will be made apparent by repetitive behaviors or verbalizations, withdrawal, or violent outbursts.
Other Common Symptoms
While the autism disorder characteristics listed above are the telltale signs that must be present for an autism diagnosis to be made, many other symptoms are frequently seen in autistic individuals. Among those common to autism disorder, which is the most common ASD and among those with the potential to be most severe, are sensory issues. Children with autism disorder, also known as classic autism or Kanner's autism, can be less responsive than the average child to some forms of sensory input, while being oversensitive to others. Often, children with autism may seem oblivious to pain, discomfort, or changes in temperature, causing safety issues. Oversensitivity is frequently seen with certain sounds, smells, colors, or textures, causing strong reactions.
Gastrointestinal issues are more prevalent in children with autism than in the general population, making diet adaptations necessary. Frequently, removing items like wheat gluten and dairy products is necessary to relieve digestive discomfort. Other physical symptoms can include uneven development of motor skills, both fine and gross.
What Can be Done
With early diagnosis and therapy intervention, many of the symptoms of autism disorder can be treated, often increasing the level of function and abilities of affected children. Among the basic interventions provided to most children with autism are speech and language therapy, occupational and sensory integration therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral therapy. Early intervention plans of this nature that begin during the preschool years have been shown to be very effective in helping children with autism make great strides in many developmental areas.
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