What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism spectrum disorder is a complex disorder that affects many children and families. Though it’s a widespread disorder, many questions and misunderstandings surround ASD. Let’s explore what autism is, common symptoms, and how ASD is diagnosed.
At InBloom Autism Services, we equip families and caregivers with the information needed to navigate autism spectrum disorder and experience ABA therapy that can transform your child’s life.
What Is Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects how the brain processes information and may result in challenges in several areas, including language, socialization, emotion, and sensory processing.
What Does Autism Spectrum Mean?
The “spectrum” part of ASD simply refers to the reality that there is a wide range of symptoms and severity of symptoms experienced by people with autism. ASD is best thought of, not as a concrete condition that looks the same for everyone who experiences it, but as a diverse and varied spectrum with certain commonalities.
How Common Is Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder diagnoses have increased because of improved processes and a better understanding of the condition. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 out of every 36 children has ASD.
Common Symptoms of Autism
Social and Communication Challenges
A kiddo on the autism spectrum may experience some challenges when it comes to communicating and engaging with others:
- Poor eye contact.
- Difficulty with facial expressions.
- Resists physical contact and may prefer to play alone.
- Difficulty starting or maintaining conversations.
Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests
Repetitious behaviors or activities can be common for children on the autism spectrum. Examples may include:
- Repetitive movements like rocking or hand flapping.
- Dependence on routines with distress at small changes.
- Fixation on specific items or activities.
Sensory Processing Differences
Kiddos with autism spectrum disorder may deal with challenges in processing various stimuli, including:
- Sounds.
- Lights.
- Taste.
- Smell.
- Touch.
You may notice over-responsiveness to stimuli (hypersensitivity), under-responsiveness (hyposensitivity), or a combination of both.
When Do Autism Symptoms Typically Appear?
Though they are sometimes missed until a child is older, autism symptoms can be detectable in children as young as 12 months or even younger.
Risk Factors for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Though autism spectrum disorder affects children of all backgrounds and races, certain things may increase a child’s risk.
Biological and Genetic Risk Factors
- Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism.
- Having a sibling with autism may increase the likelihood of a child developing autism spectrum disorder.
- Children with certain genetic conditions (such as fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis) may be at higher risk of developing ASD.
Parental Age and Birth Factors
- Children born to older parents may be at higher risk of developing ASD, but further research is needed to confirm this link.
Important Facts About Autism
Let’s explore some helpful facts to keep in mind about autism spectrum disorder:
- Autism Is a Neurodevelopmental Condition. Neurodevelopmental conditions include conditions like ADHD, speech disorders, schizophrenia, and Tourette syndrome. They are simply conditions that affect how a child’s brain functions.
- Autism Affects People Differently at Every Level. It’s helpful to remember that autism spectrum disorder includes a spectrum. Every child with ASD is affected differently and has varying strengths, needs, and challenges.
- Early Diagnosis and Support Matter. Early intervention, support, therapy, and helpful resources are available and can make all the difference in the life of a child with ASD.
How Autism Is Diagnosed
Understanding that ASD is a complex disorder with a wide range of symptoms is an essential part of understanding autism.
When should you reach out for help if you have concerns about possible ASD in your child, and how is it diagnosed?
Signs That May Prompt an Evaluation
If you notice signs of delayed development or have any concerns about your child’s speech, language, emotional, or other developmental milestones, it’s important to speak with a provider about your concerns as early as possible.
For those living in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Texas, or Wisconsin, InBloom Autism Services offers diagnostic evaluations with our experienced psychologist, Dr. Jaqui Otto.
Autism Spectrum Levels Explained
Clinicians use the DSM-5 to classify the severity of autism spectrum disorder in children. There are three levels of severity:
Level 1 – Requiring Support
A child in this category may have difficulty with social interaction and communication. Difficulties with navigating activities and social settings interfere with independence. For example, a child may be able to use complete sentences and interact socially but may struggle with sustaining conversation or making friends.
Level 2 – Requiring Substantial Support
This level of severity requires more significant support. Impairments in social interaction and communication are more pronounced, and challenging behaviors are more of an obstacle to functioning.
Level 3 – Requiring Very Substantial Support
This category includes significant verbal and nonverbal challenges and limited social skills. Extreme difficulty with navigating change may be present, and the child needs significant support.
Moving Forward: Support and Services
We’ve explored what autism is and how it’s diagnosed. What are the next steps to help a child overcome challenges and learn the vital life skills they need?
Why Early Intervention Matters
ABA therapy is an effective, transformative approach to helping children on the autism spectrum grow in communication, social, and life skills, opening up new horizons of independence, growth, and success.
ABA therapy is most effective between 18 months and 5 years of age, making this a crucial time for learning and growth.
How InBloom Autism Services Can Help
At InBloom Autism Services, we offer Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI), ensuring that children with ASD receive life-changing ABA therapy within this critical time window. Our outstanding Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) are trained and experienced in coming alongside children with ASD to help them learn, grow, and achieve success.
At InBloom, we also make parents, families, and caregivers an active part of the therapy process. From parent coaching to helpful resources, we partner with you to help your child bloom and thrive.
To learn more about starting an exciting journey of ABA therapy for your child, contact our helpful team today.
