Autism spectrum disorder is a complex developmental disorder that typically appears in the first three years of a child’s life and affects his or her ability to communicate, form relationships, and respond correctly to the environment. Autism results from a neurological disorder. It constructs normal brain development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills.
- In general, autism forms the core of the autism spectrum disorders.
- There is no conclusive cause or cure, but specialized interventions can give people affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders the tools they need to lead full and productive lives.
- People with autism process and react to information in unique ways.
Common Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder
- not responding to their name by 12 months
- fail to point at objects to show interest by 14 months
- not playing “pretend” games by 18 months
- avoiding eye contact
- preference for being alone
- having trouble understanding other people’s feelings or talking about their own feelings
- delayed speech and language skills
- repeating words or phrases
- giving unrelated answers to questions
- display obsessive interests
- having unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel
Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment
Through discussions, assessments, and personalized approach we can determine which methods might be best for your child. While it isn’t possible to “outgrow” or to be “cured” of autism, symptoms can be lessened and skills can be acquired with treatment and support.
Caregivers
Families who care for an autistic child face added stress from a number of different causes. Parents usually shocked and dismayed by the diagnosis, and they may struggle to understand their child’s diagnosis and find appropriate care options. They also struggle emotionally. In the words of a physician whose two children were both diagnosed with autism, “In the moment of diagnosis, it feels like the death of your hopes and dreams.
However, study found that half of parents who had a child with any kind of developmental disability were still caring for their child by age 50, while only 17% of parents that age would typically be caring for children.