What is Autism?
There is No One Type of Autism, There Are Many
According to the Centers of Disease Control, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. There is often nothing about how people with ASD look that sets them apart from other people, but people with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities of people with ASD can range from gifted to severely challenged. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others need less.
A diagnosis of ASD now includes several conditions that used to be diagnosed separately: autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger syndrome. These conditions are now all called autism spectrum disorder.
Did you know?
In 2021, the CDC reported that approximately 1 in 44 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to 2018 data.
Signs and Symptoms
People with ASD often have problems with social, emotional, and communication skills. They might repeat certain behaviors and might not want change in their daily activities. Many people with ASD also have different ways of learning, paying attention, or reacting to things. Signs of ASD begin during early childhood and typically last throughout a person’s life.
Children or Adults with ASD Might:
Children or adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) might display a range of behaviors and characteristics that vary in intensity and nature. Socially, they may struggle with communication, such as having difficulty starting or maintaining conversations, interpreting social cues like facial expressions or body language, or understanding the nuances of relationships. This can lead to challenges in forming friendships and engaging in social activities.
They might also exhibit repetitive behaviors, like hand-flapping, repeating certain actions, or insisting on strict routines and sameness. Some individuals may have intense, focused interests in specific topics, often becoming experts in those areas.
Additionally, sensory sensitivities can be common, with individuals being overly sensitive or under-sensitive to sensory inputs such as bright lights, sounds, textures, or smells. While these traits can make daily life challenging, individuals with ASD may also demonstrate unique talents and abilities, often excelling in areas like memory, detail-oriented tasks, or specialized skills.
- Have Difficulty with Social Interactions
Struggle with making eye contact or understanding body language and facial expressions. Find it challenging to initiate or maintain conversations, and may prefer solitary activities. Have difficulty understanding social norms or responding to social cues in group settings.
- Engage in Repetitive Behaviors
Repeat specific actions or phrases (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking, repeating words or sentences). Show a preference for routines and may become upset when routines are disrupted. Engage in repetitive activities, such as lining up objects or watching the same video over and over again.
- Have Focused or Intense Interests
Develop deep interests in specific topics or activities, often to the exclusion of other things. May become experts in particular subjects, such as trains, animals, or certain types of technology. Might have difficulty shifting attention from their interests to other activities or topics.
- Experience Sensory Sensitivities
May be highly sensitive to sensory inputs like loud sounds, bright lights, certain textures, or strong smells. May become overwhelmed by sensory stimuli or seek out specific sensory experiences (e.g., touching objects, seeking deep pressure). Could be under-sensitive to pain, heat, or cold, or may show unusual reactions to sensory experiences.
- Demonstrate Communication Challenges
Have delays in speech development, or may have trouble using language to express themselves. Some individuals might be nonverbal, using alternative communication methods like sign language or communication devices. May have difficulty understanding abstract language, sarcasm, or figurative speech and prefer literal interpretations.
- Have Strengths in Certain Areas
May demonstrate exceptional skills in specific areas, such as mathematics, music, art, or memory. May have remarkable attention to detail and a unique ability to focus on particular tasks for extended periods. Often possess unique problem-solving abilities or creative thinking in specialized areas.
- Show Emotional Sensitivity or React Strongly to Stress
Can become easily overwhelmed or stressed by new or unfamiliar situations. May experience meltdowns or shutdowns when feeling overstimulated or unable to cope with stress or sensory overload. May have difficulty regulating emotions, especially in situations of change or uncertainty.
What does the CDC say about Autism?
CDC works 24/7 to protect America from health, safety, and security threats, both foreign and in the U.S. Click the boxes below to learn what the CDC says about ASD.
Autism Diagnosis CDC
According to the CDC, autism is diagnosed by observing behavioral patterns and developmental history, not through medical tests. Early screening is recommended at 18 and 24 months. Diagnosis is based on criteria from the DSM-5 involving social communication and repetitive behaviors.
ASD Treatment CDC
The CDC states that early intervention is crucial for improving development in children with ASD. Treatment plans are personalized and may include behavioral therapies, educational support, speech and occupational therapy, and medications to manage specific symptoms. These interventions aim to enhance daily functioning and quality of life across various settings.
What is ABA therapy, and how does it work?
ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) is a scientifically proven approach that uses positive reinforcement to teach skills and improve behavior. It breaks tasks into small steps, making learning structured and effective. It’s widely used for children with autism.
Causes and Risk Factors CDC
The exact causes of ASD are not fully understood, but genetic factors are known to play a significant role. Additional risk factors include having a sibling with ASD, certain genetic or chromosomal conditions (such as fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis), complications at birth, and being born to older parents. Environmental influences during pregnancy and birth complications are also under investigation.
Get Started with BrightSteps
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