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Autism or Other Developmental Disorder?
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Evidence of autism is seen before a child reaches three years old. Autism is a spectrum disorder meaning that it affects individuals differently. Because of the various symptoms and warning signs Autism was difficult to diagnose in the past. It typically involves delays and impairment in social skills, language, and behavior.
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Signs of autism are broken down into three broad sections: social interaction, communication, and stereotyped behavior. To have a diagnosis of autism a person needs six symptoms across the three categories. Delay in social interaction, social communication, or symbolic or imaginative play is also an indicator of autism.
1. Impairment in social functioning
- a. Impairment in many forms of nonverbal expressions (posture, eye contact)
b. Failure to develop age appropriate peer relationships
c. Doesn’t seek to share enjoyment, interests with others
d. No social or emotional exchange; avoid cuddling or touching
2. Impairments in communication
- a. Delay or lack of language development
b. Inability to begin or sustain a conversation with well-spoken individuals
c. Stereotyped/repetitive use of language
d. Lack of varied, imaginative play or social actions (age appropriate)
e. Doesn’t respond to normal teaching methods or verbal clues.
f. Frequent outbursts and tantrums
3. Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior/interest and activities
- a. Abnormal intensity or focus on a certain stereotyped and restricted behavior
b. Inflexible routine of specific nonfunctional routine or ritual
c. Stereotyped or repetitive motor mannerisms (flapping arms)
d. Persistent interest with certain parts of objects
There is a sensory integration problem that can make people with autism hypersensitive to noise, smells, tactile objects and have a general low tolerance for arousal. These abnormal reactions to stimuli are a good indicator of autism. Being touched could be seen as painful, smelling a caregiver’s cologne might be extremely unpleasant and loud noise or bright lights can cause uncontrollable crying. Autistic individuals process and respond to information in unique ways. Something that goes against their routine may cause them to become aggressive or self-abusive.
Behaviors that requires further examination
- Individual does not babble, coo or gesture by the time he is one-years old
- Individual does not say single words at 16 months or two-word phrases by 24 months
- There is a noticeable weakening in language or social skills at any age
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