Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder

An Introduction

Autism also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is prevalent among 1 in 100 children (Zeidan J., 2022). Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder which in simple terms means that a child’s growth and development of the brain is affected due to a condition or a group of conditions which impacts their everyday functioning. A child with a “spectrum disorder” exhibits distinctive behavioural patterns and a range in the intensity of their symptoms (from low functioning to high functioning). As an example, some kids with intellect levels below average may struggle to learn and communicate, but others may display traits of intelligence ranging from normal to high. While some people may have little trouble adjusting to social situations, others may find it difficult to use common sense in their daily lives. Because of this, autism is distinct and challenging to comprehend and recognise. It is however noteworthy that in the past two decades, research and updated training programs for professionals have led to better understanding and management of autism among children. 

Diagnosis, Signs & Symptoms and Levels

Parents, carers, and clinical psychologists can spot the early signs of autism in children as young as one year old. It can occasionally be identified in children as early as 18 months old by a skilled mental health expert. At the age of 3, the symptoms are typically more obvious and consistent. When the child attends school, interacts with peers, and participates in activities, it becomes clearly apparent.

Below mentioned are the certain signs & symptoms and level of the disorder. 

Certain aforementioned points can also be noted in certain individuals without ASD but for people with ASD, the characteristics can make life very challenging. Each domain may have a range of levels, which the professional can use as a reference to determine the level of assistance or intervention needed for each child’s particular functioning.

Causes and Risks

• Family History – Children with parents, relatives of parents or an older sibling having features of ASD
• Birth Complications – Babies born pre-term in the second trimester, low birth weight or other complications at birth
• Pregnancy or being born to older parents.
• Genetic conditions such as Down syndrome or Fragile X syndrome
• Environmental Factors – Child-bearing women consuming or exposed to drugs, chemicals, alcohol or other substances. 

In conclusion, autism can range from mild, which can be managed with the help of the necessary interventions without negatively affecting daily functioning, to severe, which necessitates the use of specialised facilities to meet the child’s demands. Therefore, the treatment plans typically call for interventions from a variety of professionals who can aid in the child’s long-term holistic development. It may be said that ASD is manageable if early intervention is initiated.