Decoding Autism

Autism is a developmental disorder which is linked to neurological disorder that impacts the typical functioning of the brain. Often observed in the first three years of life, autism mainly affects social functioning and language. It is important to note that autism is defined on "spectrum", and no two cases are exactly alike. Understanding and identifying the different symptoms or exhibited behaviors is crucial in developing a plan that will work with the individual child to maximize their skills and potential. Diagnosing autism early remains one of the most vital aspects influencing the outcome of an individual afflicted with the disorder.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder is a broad term that characterizes the five neurological disorders that fall underneath it. Pervasive Developmental Disorders, or PDD, are a category of neurological disorders characterized by a "severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development". Each of these five disorders has individual diagnostic criteria which defines and separates them from one another. The diagnostic criteria have been determined by and listed in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR). The five disorders listed under the umbrella of PDD are: Autistic Disorder, Asperger's Disorder, Rett's Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and PDD, not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS).

Pervasive Developmental Disorder

•Rett's Disorder

•Asperger's Disorder•Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

•Autistic Disorder

•Pervasive Developmental Disorder, NOS

While all of the above listed disorders are of equal importance, autism is characterized by being the one disorder that presents the most confusion and difficulty in diagnosing. I refer to autism as "The Scarlet Letter", "A". Autism is widely misunderstood, and treated as a taboo. More information is coming to light about autism, but it still remains an enigma to most. It is imperative to remember that autism is a "spectrum disorder". No two cases are identical, although they may be very similar. Think of the spectrum as a spectrum of light: Red --- Yellow---Green---Blue---Purple

If we identify the color red as being behavior most resembling "typical" behavior, and purple as being behavior most resembling "atypical" behavior, this would place the most severe forms of autism on the purple end of the spectrum, and the least severe forms of autism on the red end of the spectrum. The colors in between red and purple depict forms of autism which gradually increase in severity. Individuals on the mild, or red end of the spectrum who are mildly affected may exhibit very slight delays in communication skills and more obstacles with social interactions. Initiating conversations with other and maintaining these conversations pose difficulty. Individuals on the mild end of the autism spectrum are able to function very well, and have only some indicators of the disorder. Individuals on the higher end, or purple end of the spectrum are more significantly impacted by the disorder. These individuals may exhibit behaviors that are more challenging, and may include making little or no eye contact, engaging in repetitive behaviors (lining up toy trains, etc.), having no response to verbal cuing, use of echolalic speech (repeating words that seem to have no real significance to conversation at hand), difficulty integrating sensory input (hyper or hyposensitivity to sound, light, smell, touch, etc.), and physical behaviors like spinning, rocking, or hand flapping. This list is not exhaustive by any means, but it does point out some of the more obvious and more regularly observed behaviors.

The cause of autism and other pervasive developmental disorders is unknown, however, it is widely thought to be caused by an abnormality in brain structure and/or functioning. It is also thoughr that children are born with autism (or a predisposition to autism), however no tirggers of autism have yet to be named. Controversy remains over certain "triggers" thought to spark autism, howvever, no clear evidence has been determined.

Children do not simply "outgrow" autism, but they can benefit from treatments that enhance their behaviors, and teach children new skills. These treatments allow children to grow and thrive even if at different rates than their peers. Some of these treatments include programs that help develop skills related to academics, language, social development, self-help skills, and behavioral. Treatments include, but are not limited to Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA Therapy), Picture Exchange Comminucation System (PECS), Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH), and Pivotal Response Treatment. Finding an advocate and creating a support team for you and your child will help you to determine the right plan for your child. Early diagnosis and intervention is critical in the success of a child with autistic disorder.