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What is Autism?
Autism is a life long developmental disability that affects an individual's understanding of what they see, hear and sense. This results in problems of social relationships, communication and behaviour. It is generally accepted that autism is an organic disorder.
What causes Autism?
The cause or causes of autism are as yet unknown. No factors in the child's psychological or family environment cause autism.
What are the characteristics of Autism?
The degree of severity of characteristics differs from person to person, but usually include disturbances in the following:
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Communication
Social Interaction Difficulties with:
Intellectual Functioning
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Inconsistent Sensory Response
Activities and interests
Play
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What are the four main criteria used for Diagnosis?
What is the prognosis?
Studies have indicated that many people with autism may require varying degrees of support throughout their lives. It appears that an individual's intellectual ability may be an important factor in the long-term prognosis.
Does Autism occur in conjunction with other disabilities?
Autism can occur by itself or in association with other disorders such as intellectual disability, learning disability, epilepsy, rubella, fragile-x syndrome etc. A significant number of individuals with autism will develop epilepsy prior to adulthood.
Can medication be useful with Autistic individuals?
Medication has no specific role in autism and cannot be used in a curative sense, although anti-convulsants are required if epilepsy develops. In some cases where aggressive behaviour or depression develops, medication may be prescribed by a suitably qualified medical practitioner.
What is the difference between Autism and Intellectual Disability?
Most people with an intellectual disability show relatively even skill development. Individuals with autism typically show uneven skill development. Regardless of the level of intellectual functioning, problems with social awareness and understanding persist in people with autism.
What are the major differences in language development between Autistic and
non Autistic intellectually disabled person?
Intellectually disabled people tend to have delayed language whilst the language of people with autism tends to be both delayed and disordered. Many have immediate or delayed echolalia (repetition of words or phrases). There is confusion over the use of pronouns and a tendency to interpret language literally.
How can people with Autism be helped?
Behavioural methods are helpful in enhancing development in social, language, self-help, co-operation and other basic skills. Special educational approaches with firmly controlled, consistent, predictable and organised routines can help most children make gains in learning.
Want to know more?
For more information about Autism, please ask at Irabina.
