What is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a broad, complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. Early indicators of ASD may include, but are not limited to decreased shared interests with others, lack of awareness/understanding of non-verbal gestures, difficulty relating to others, inability to tolerate changes in routine, or arranging things in a particular way (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

While several potential risk factors have been identified, the cause of ASD remains unclear. Researchers currently believe that having a sibling with ASD, having genetic or chromosomal conditions, or experiencing complications at birth may contribute to the diagnosis. Based on the current diagnostic criteria, boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls. Diagnoses can be given as early as 18 months and are considered reliable at age two, but most diagnoses occur around the age of five (Hyman et al., 2020).

At the time of this writing, the current prevalence of ASD is 1 in 36 children (based on 8-year-olds). This prevalence has steadily increased over the last two decades and demonstrates an ever-increasing need for access to quality behavior analytic services. Do you suspect that your child has Autism?  Learn more about screening and diagnostic options here.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association Publishing.

Hyman, S. L., Levy, S. E., Myers, S. M., & COUNCIL ON CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES, SECTION ON DEVELOPMENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL PEDIATRICS (2020). Identification, Evaluation, and Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Pediatrics, 145(1), e20193447. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2019-3447