Autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, affects how individuals socialize with others and view other people, causing difficulties in socializing and communicating in interpersonal relationships. Additionally, individuals will present with limited/repetitive patterns of behavior.
Usually, individuals begin to present symptoms of ASD in early childhood. It is common for symptoms to begin showing up in the first year of life; however, those that appear to develop without the disorder may start to develop symptoms in the second year.
What are some symptoms of ASD?
- Early infancy signs --- lack of eye contact; indifference to caretakers; not responding to their name
- May develop initially without any presenting symptoms but then may become withdrawn and aggressive or lose previously learned skills
- Social communication and interaction:
- Resistance to physical affection
- Poor eye contact
- Lack of use of facial expressions
- Difficulty with carrying a conversation; may start one for practicality
- Tone of voice may be inappropriate for the type of conversation had; may utilize repetitive rhythmic patterns of speaking
- Lack of emotional awareness when interacting with others
- Difficulty realizing nonverbal cues
- Behavioral patterns
- Repetitive moments (ex. rocking, spinning, hand flapping)
- Engages in activities that could result in harm to themselves (ex. biting, head-banging)
- Creation of routines and rituals --- unsure of how to adjust if these are interrupted/unexpected events arise
- Difficulties with coordination; strange movement patterns; exaggerated body language
- Interest in details without an understanding of an overall purpose
What are some risk factors for developing ASD?
- Child's sex assigned at birth --- males are 4x more likely to develop ASD than females
- Family history --- if a family has 1 child with ASD, it is likely that another child will develop the disorder; parents also tend to have similar difficulties with social/communication skills and/or engage in behaviors consistent with the disorder.
- Very pre-term children
- Parents' age (more research needed)
What are some social complications involved with ASD?
- Difficulties in school and with successful learning
- Difficulties in maintaining employment
- Troubles living independently
- Social isolation
- Victimization and getting bullied
Here at Madrigal, we are committed to addressing autism spectrum disorder holistically to help you reach your best potential.
*This information was adapted from the Mayo Clinic. Click here to learn more information.*