Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Autism is a developmental disability that appears during the first three years of life. Although some children are born with autism, the vast majority experience a normal period of development followed by regression. Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) appear in many degrees, and although treatments and research studies positively continue, we are no closer to determining the cause of this disorder. The latest studies suggest that as many as one in 150 children age 10 and younger may be affected by autism or a related disorder such as Asperger’s Syndrome.
What are the characteristics of autistic spectrum disorders?
Children exhibit serious social, behavioural and communicative impairments.
Not every child is the same but some characteristics may be:
- trouble understanding things they have heard or read
- inappropriate body language or facial expression
- seldom make eye contact
- socially awkward in relations with other children and/or adults
- naive and gullible, literal in speech and understanding
- often unaware of others' feelings
- unable to carry on a "give and take" conversation (take turns)
- easily upset by changes in routines and transitions
- overly sensitive to loud sounds, lights or odours
- fixated on one subject or object
- physically awkward in sports and “clumsy”
They may also show:
- an unusually accurate memory for details
- sleeping or eating problems
- unusual speech patterns (repetitive and/or irrelevant remarks)
- unusually loud, high or monotonous voice
- tendency to rock, fidget or pace while concentrating
Assessments for Autistic Spectrum Disorders should ideally be carried out by a multidisciplinary team including a
Speech & Language Therapist, Developmental or Educational Psychologist and Occupational or Physiotherapist.