What is Autism? Exploring the Spectrum for Parents

Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Autism

Knowing the signs of autism is the first step toward getting your child the support they need. The core autism symptoms usually fall into two main categories: persistent challenges in social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors.

These communication challenges and behaviors can look very different from one child to another. Learning to spot the early indicators and understanding how they present at different ages can make all the difference. We will now look at what to watch for in infants, children, and across different life stages.

Early Warning Signs in Infants and Toddlers

At what age do signs of autism usually appear? While a diagnosis may not happen until later, you can often spot early signs of autism within the first few years of life, sometimes as early as 18 months of age. Early intervention is incredibly effective, so paying attention to developmental milestones is key.

If you notice your child isn't meeting certain social or communication milestones, it's wise to speak with your child’s health care provider or a developmental pediatrician.

Some common red flags include:

• Little to no eye contact
  
  
• Not responding to their name by 12 months of age
  
  
• Not pointing at objects to show interest
  
  
• Delays in speech and language skills
  
  

Trusting your instincts as a parent is important. If you have concerns, seeking a professional opinion is a proactive and positive step.

Main Behavioral and Communication Symptoms in Children

What are the main symptoms of autism spectrum disorder? As children grow, the signs of autism often become more apparent. These symptoms are typically grouped into two primary areas: social communication difficulties and repetitive behaviors.

For social communication, you might notice your child has trouble with back-and-forth conversation, understanding nonverbal communication like body language, or developing friendships. For repetitive behaviors, you may see your child engaging in repeated motions, having intense interests in specific topics, or being very sensitive to sensory input.

Some common examples include:

• Difficulty understanding other people's feelings or perspectives
  
  
• Repeating words or phrases (echolalia)
  
  
• Having a strict adherence to specific routines
  
  
• Unusual reactions to sounds, smells, tastes, textures, or lights
  
  

Autism Traits Across Different Ages

Autism traits are present throughout a person's life, but they can change or look different at various stages. The diagnostic manual no longer uses terms like Asperger syndrome or childhood disintegrative disorder, but understanding how traits evolve is still helpful for parents.

In early childhood, the focus is often on missed developmental milestones. As children enter school, challenges with peer relationships and adapting to classroom routines may become more obvious. For people of all ages, from teens to adults, these traits persist, though many learn strategies to navigate social situations.

Autism traits can manifest as:

• Difficulty making or keeping friends in school
  
  
• Intense focus on a few specific interests
  
  
• Challenges with organizational skills
  
  
• Learning to "mask" or hide symptoms to fit in

Causes and Risk Factors of Autism

One of the biggest questions parents have is, "What causes autism?" There is no simple answer. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and other institutions suggests there is no single cause. Instead, autism likely develops from a combination of genetic and environmental influences.

Understanding the known risk factors can help you make sense of the information available. It’s important to know that these factors increase risk; they do not cause autism directly. Let's examine the biological and environmental influences researchers are currently studying.

Biological and Genetic Influences

Research strongly points to biological and genetic influences as significant factors in autism. What causes autism spectrum disorder is complex, but genes play a major role.

Families with one child with autism have a higher risk of autism in subsequent children.

Certain genetic conditions are also associated with autism. For example, conditions like Fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis carry an increased risk. This is why genetic testing may sometimes be part of the diagnostic process, as it can help identify an underlying condition.

However, it's not as simple as a single "autism gene." Scientists believe that it is likely a combination of many genes that contribute to the development of autism, interacting with other factors.

Environmental Factors and Research Insights

While genetics are a key piece of the puzzle, researchers are also exploring potential environmental factors. These are factors that a person might be exposed to before, during, or after birth that could increase the risk of autism.

Research into these factors is ongoing, and scientists are looking at things like advanced parental age at the time of conception, pregnancy and birth complications, and pregnancies spaced less than one year apart. The Centers for Disease Control emphasizes that these factors do not cause autism on their own but may contribute to the overall risk.

It's crucial to rely on credible scientific research rather than myths or speculation. There is no evidence, for instance, that vaccines cause autism. Understanding the real research can help you focus on what truly matters: supporting your child’s health and development.

Diagnosing Autism: What Parents Need to Know

Receiving an autism diagnosis is a key step in accessing services and support for your child. How is autism diagnosed? It’s important to know that there is no medical test, like a blood test, to diagnose autism. The process involves a comprehensive behavioral evaluation.

This assessment is typically conducted by specialized healthcare providers, such as a developmental pediatrician, neurologist, or psychologist. They will observe your child and talk to you about their development. Let's walk through what the screening and diagnostic processes entail and when a diagnosis can typically be made.

Screening, Assessment, and Diagnostic Processes

The journey to an autism diagnosis often begins with developmental screening during a well-child visit. Your pediatrician may ask questions about your child’s behaviors and milestones. If the screening raises concerns, you will be referred for a more comprehensive assessment.

This formal evaluation is where the diagnosis is made. A developmental pediatrician or another specialist will use current diagnostic guidelines to assess your child. This involves direct observation of your child, interviews with you about their developmental history, and potentially other evaluations to rule out different conditions.

The assessment looks at your child's social interaction, communication skills, and behavioral patterns. Getting a thorough assessment is vital for creating an effective support plan tailored to your child’s unique needs.

Age and Stages When Autism Can Be Identified

At what age do signs of autism usually appear? A reliable diagnosis of autism can often be made by the age of two. However, many children are not diagnosed until they are older, with the average age of diagnosis in the U.S. being around age five. Delays can happen for many reasons.

In the early years of life, especially between 18 and 24 months of age, the signs can be clear for some but less so for others. A subtle presentation of symptoms, which is more common in girls, can lead to a later diagnosis. Girls may be better at "masking" their social challenges.

For some, a diagnosis may not come until the teen or adult years, especially if their support needs are lower. Recognizing the signs at any stage is the first step toward understanding and support.

Types and Levels of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Are there different types or levels of autism? Yes. Because autism spectrum disorder is a spectrum, the abilities of people with autism vary widely. To better describe this variation, the diagnostic manual outlines three "levels" of autism.

These levels are not meant to be rigid labels. Instead, they provide a general guide to the amount of support an individual may need to thrive. Understanding these levels can help you and your child’s team determine the different types of support needed. We’ll explore these levels and common co-occurring conditions.

Understanding Severity Levels and Support Needs

The diagnostic manual (DSM-5) outlines three severity levels for autism. These levels are based on the amount of support a person needs for their social communication challenges and restricted, repetitive behaviors.

This framework helps clinicians and parents make the best possible use of resources to help a child reach their full potential. The levels are not a reflection of a person's intelligence or worth but simply a description of their support needs.

The three levels are:

• Level 1: "Requiring support." Individuals at this level may have noticeable social communication challenges but can often speak in full sentences and engage in communication.
  
  
• Level 2: "Requiring substantial support." Individuals here have more marked challenges in verbal and nonverbal communication.

• Level 3: "Requiring very substantial support." Individuals at this level have severe deficits in communication and social skills and often require significant support.
  
  

Co-occurring Conditions in Autism

Many people with autism also have other medical or mental health conditions. These are known as co-occurring conditions and can affect a person’s quality of life and support needs.

It's common for individuals with autism to also be diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, or depression. Some may also have a learning disability or have intellectual disabilities, though many have average or above-average intelligence. Addressing these conditions is an important part of a comprehensive support plan.

Common co-occurring conditions include:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  
  
• Anxiety and depression
  
  
• Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders
  
  
• Seizures and sleep disorders
  
  
• Sensory processing issues
  
  

Living with Autism: Lifelong Journey

Is autism a lifelong condition? Yes, autism is a lifelong journey. The needs, strengths, and challenges of an autistic person will change over time as they move through different life stages. The support that works for a toddler will be different from what an autistic adult needs.

The goal is to provide the right support at the right time to help individuals navigate their daily lives and build a happy life. With understanding and accommodations, many people on the spectrum lead fulfilling and independent lives. Let's look at what that can entail.

Independence, Education, and Life Skills

Can people with autism live independent lives? Absolutely. Many autistic adults live entirely independently, while others may need some level of support. Fostering independence begins early by teaching essential life skills.

Education is a critical component. For school-age children, an individualized education plan (IEP) can provide the necessary accommodations and support to succeed academically and develop social skills. The focus should be on building on your child's strengths.

As they grow, developing life skills becomes increasingly important.

This can include:

• Managing finances and budgeting
  
  
• Skills for household chores and cooking
  
  
• Navigating public transportation
  
  
• Pursuing higher education or vocational training
  
  

Supporting Social Relationships and Family Life

Strong social relationships and a supportive family life are vital for everyone, including individuals with autism. Building these connections, however, can sometimes be challenging depending on a person's support needs.

As a parent, you play a huge role in creating a supportive environment. This includes learning how your child communicates best, whether it's through speech, sign language, or an assistive device. Finding resources and connecting with other families can also make a big difference. The Autism Speaks Resource Guide is a great starting point.

Ways to support social and family life include:

• Teaching how to understand social cues
  
  
• Finding clubs or groups based on your child's interests
  
  
• Educating extended family members about autism
  
  
• Celebrating your child's unique strengths and personality
  
  

Conclusion

Understanding autism is crucial for parents and caregivers navigating this journey. The spectrum of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a range of characteristics, challenges, and strengths that vary from individual to individual. By recognizing the signs, understanding the causes, and knowing how to support those with autism, you empower your loved ones to lead fulfilling lives. Remember, every step towards awareness and acceptance fosters a more inclusive environment. If you're seeking tailored guidance or support, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. Embrace the journey, together, we can make a difference!

At Divine Steps ABA, we’re here to walk that journey with you. Our compassionate ABA therapy in Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina are personalized to meet your child’s unique needs. Whether you're a parent, educator, or professional, we offer expert support to help individuals with autism thrive. 

Take the first step toward meaningful progress. Contact us today!



Frequently Asked Questions

SOURCE:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20352928

https://www.americanbrainfoundation.org/diseases/autism/#:~:text=Researchers%20are%20not%20sure%20what,and%20very%20low%20birth%20weight.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/autism

https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/conditions/autism

https://www.cdc.gov/autism/about/index.html