Autism Spectrum Disorders
Autism Spectrum Disorders (pronounced: aw-tiz-uhm spek-truhm dis-or-ders) are a range of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. The term "spectrum" refers to the wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of disability that can occur in individuals with these disorders.
Etymology
The term "Autism" comes from the Greek word "autos," meaning "self." It was first used by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler in 1911 to describe a group of symptoms of schizophrenia. The term "Spectrum" was added later to reflect the diversity of symptoms and abilities associated with these disorders.
Related Terms
- Asperger Syndrome: A type of pervasive developmental disorder which is defined by the atypical development of social skills and a restricted range of interests and activities.
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS): A condition that differs from autism by its timing and severity of symptoms.
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder: A condition where a child develops normally and then begins to lose social, communication and other skills.
- Rett Syndrome: A rare genetic disorder that affects brain development, resulting in severe mental and physical disability.
Symptoms
Autism Spectrum Disorders are characterized by two main types of symptoms: problems in social communication and social interaction, and restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior or activities.
Social Communication and Interaction
People with Autism Spectrum Disorders often have difficulty with social aspects of communication. This can include:
- Difficulty with back-and-forth conversation
- Difficulty understanding and using non-verbal communication
- Difficulty developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships
Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors
People with Autism Spectrum Disorders often have patterns of behavior, interests, or activities that are restricted and repetitive. This can include:
- Stereotyped or repetitive motor movements, use of objects, or speech
- Insistence on sameness, inflexible adherence to routines, or ritualized patterns of verbal or nonverbal behavior
- Highly restricted, fixated interests that are abnormal in intensity or focus
- Hyper- or hypo-reactivity to sensory input or unusual interest in sensory aspects of the environment
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders is based on the presence of symptoms that affect social interaction, communication, interests, and behavior. The diagnosis is usually made by a team of specialists, including psychologists, neurologists, psychiatrists, and other professionals who are experienced in diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Treatment
While there is no cure for Autism Spectrum Disorders, there are many treatments that can help individuals manage their symptoms. These can include behavioral therapy, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and medications for related conditions.
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