Autism Spectrum Disorder
Introduction
It is a neurological and development disorder that effects how people interact with others, communicate, learn and behave.
People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction and restricted and repetitive behaviors of interests.
People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving or paying attention.
Examples of problems in social communication and social interaction characteristics related to ASD include:-
- Avoids or does not keep Eye Contact
- Does not Respond to Name by 9 Months of Age
- Does not Show Facial Expressions like Happy, Sad, Angry and Surprised by 9 Months of Age
- Does not Play Simple Interactive Games like pat–a–cake by 12 Months of Age.
- Uses few or no Gestures by 12 Months of Age (for e.g. – Does not Wave Goodbye)
- Does not Share Interest with Others by 15 Months of Age (for e.g. – Shows you an Object that they like)
- Does not Point to Show you Something Interesting by 18 Months of Age
- Does not Notice When Others are Hurt or Upset by 24 Months of Age
- Does not Notice Other Children and Join them in Play by 36 Months of Age
- Does not Pretend to be Someone else, like a Teacher or Superhero, during Play by 48 Months of Age
- Does not Sing, Dance, or Act for you by 60 Months of Age
Examples of problems in restricted or repetitive behaviors and interest related to ASD:-
- Lines up Toys or Object and gets Upset when Order is changed
- Repeat words or Phrases over and over (called Echolalia)
- Plays with Toys the same way every time.
- Is Focused on parts of Object (for e.g.- Wheels)
- Gets upset of Minor changes
- Has Obsessive Interest
- Must Follow Certain Rules
- Flaps Hands, Rocks Body or Spins Self in Circle
- Has unusual Reactions to the way things, Sound, Smell, Taste, Look or Feel
Other Characteristics:-
- Delayed Language Skills
- Delayed Movement Skills
- Delayed Cognitive or Learning Skills
- Hyperactive, Impulsive or Inattentive Behavior
- Epilepsy or Seizure Disorder
- Unusual Eating or Sleeping Habits
- Gastrointestinal Issues (for e.g. – Constipation)
- Unusual Mood or Emotional Reactions)
- Anxiety, Stress or Excessive Worry
- Lack of Fear or more Fear than Expected
Assessment
- Development Screening Test (DST)
- Developmental Assessment
- INCLENE (For ASD)
- ISAA
- Sensory Profile - II
- Vineland Social Maturity Scale
- IQ Assessment
If your child exhibits any of the symptoms listed above, please contact us to schedule a private consultation with our Paediatric Expert.
FAQs
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting social interaction, communication skills, and behavior. It is a lifelong condition, varying in severity and presentation among individuals.
Professionals specialising in developmental disorders diagnose autism by observing behavior, communication skills, and social interactions. They may also use standardized assessments.
Evidence-based therapies include applied behavior analysis (ABA), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills training. Therapy choice depends on individual needs.
With the right support, many children with autism can thrive academically.
Establish routines, use clear communication, incorporate visual aids, use positive reinforcement, and focus on their strengths and interests.
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