What is Autism?
Autism is a lifelong brain-based condition that affects a person’s ability to communicate, understand language, play and socially interact with others. Autism is classified as a developmental disability because it interferes with the typical rate and patterns of childhood development. The first signs of autism usually appear as before age three. There are diagnoses closely related to autism such as PDD-NOS (pervasive development disorder not otherwise specified), Asperger’s syndrome, and Rett’s syndrome that are included in the category of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
What causes Autism?
Scientists believe there are often genetic or biological factors that affect the working of the brain. It is possible there are many factors that could interact with one another, which could cause different characteristics in each individual with autism. Parents do not cause autism. No factors in a child’s experiences or in parenting styles create autism.
WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTISM?
• Every person with autism is different. However, there are some common characteristics of individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
• Many have difficulty in using and understanding language, and understanding the perspectives of other people.
• Many require more direct specialized instruction in social, play and friendship skills than other children.
• Many have unusual sensitivity or under-sensitivity to sound, sight, taste, touch, or smell.
• Many show unusual repetitive behaviors or speech patterns, such as switching a light on and off repeatedly, or humming loudly.
• Many have difficulty with changes to surroundings or routines.
• Many show uneven skill development. Some skills are average or superior for their age, while others show significant delay.
• Many have difficulty maintaining a conversation, noticing facial expressions, or using gestures.
For additional information on autism, along with a resource guide for Central Florida, trainings, conferences and more visit UCF-CARD.
Autism Facts
Autism Is a ‘Spectrum’ Disorder
A disorder that includes a broad range of symptoms is often called a spectrum disorder; hence the term “autism spectrum disorder.” The most significant shared symptom is difficulty with social communication (eye contact, conversation, taking another’s perspective, etc.). Early detection is important.
People With Autism Are Different from One Another
If you’ve seen Rainman or a TV show that features a character with autism, you may think you know what autism “looks like.” In fact, though, when you’ve met one person with autism you’ve met ONE person with autism. Some people with autism are chatty; others are silent. Many have sensory issues, gastrointestinal problems, sleep difficulties and other medical problems.
There Are Many Unfounded Myths About Autism
The media is full of stories about autism. For example, you may have heard that people with autism are cold and unfeeling, or that people with autism never marry or hold productive jobs. Since every person with autism is different, however, such “always” and “never” statements simply don’t hold water. To understand a person with autism, it’s a good idea to spend some time getting to know him or her – personally!
Autistic People Have Many Strengths and Abilities
Everyone on the autism spectrum has a great to deal to offer the world. People with autism are among the most forthright, non- judgmental, passionate people you’ll ever meet. They are also ideal candidates for many types of careers.
