Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a “developmental disorder” because symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life. (The National Institute of Mental Health, 2022) 

Child psychiatrist Leo Kanner was the first to identify autism in children. He used the word “autistic” from the Greek word “autos” meaning self, as he observed children with autism showed a tendency to stay to themselves. Over the years, our knowledge about the symptoms and characteristics of autism continue to grow and change. Now referred to as autism spectrum disorder, approximately 3.5 million individuals in the United States have ASD, it is the fastest-growing developmental disability. 

While most individuals with ASD face deficits in communication as well as social skills, each person has varying levels of the disorder, this is where the word “spectrum” comes from. Autism is considered a “spectrum disorder” because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience. People of all genders, races, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds can be diagnosed with ASD. (The National Institute of Mental Health, 2022)

Autism spectrum disorder is continuously researched, broadening our knowledge and understanding about the wide variety of symptoms that may place someone on the spectrum. Because of this, there is an increased rate of clinicians accurately diagnosing individuals with ASD, some of which may have been misdiagnosed in the past. An overall public awareness of ASD and how it may present itself differently amongst a variety of individuals has continued to increase.  

Autism spectrum disorder is continuously researched, broadening our knowledge and understanding about the wide variety of symptoms that may place someone on the spectrum. Because of this, there is an increased rate of clinicians accurately diagnosing individuals with ASD, some of which may have been misdiagnosed in the past. An overall public awareness of ASD and how it may present itself differently amongst a variety of individuals has continued to increase.  

The core symptoms of ASD include social communication challenges and restricted, repetitive behaviors. Signs of ASD in communication may include but are not limited to the lack of understanding/use of eye contact, facial expressions, spoken language, gestures, etc. Social challenges that may be present include expressing emotions, seeking emotional comfort from others, feeling overwhelmed in social situations, etc. Restrictive and repetitive behaviors may also be present such as repetitive body movements, repetitive motions with objects, narrow or extreme interests in specific topics, etc.

• Cerebral cortex: responsible for the higher mental functions, general movement, perception and behavioral reactions 
• Amygdala: responsible for emotional reactions, such as aggressive behavior
• Brain stem: passes messages through the body. Also controls breathing and heart rate. 
• Basal ganglia: Assists regulating automatic movement. 
• Hippocampus: Ability to recall new information and recent events
• Corpus callosum: communication between hemispheres 
• Cerebellum: motor activity, regulates balance 

The autism community and those working with individuals on the spectrum are moving away from using the word “treatment” as there is currently no cure or need for a cure for autism. Societies understanding and knowledge about ASD has lead to a greater acceptance for individuals on the spectrum. Some doctors will, however, prescribe medication that may help with common symptoms of ASD such as hyperactivity, anxiety, mood regulation, and other symptoms that may affect an individual’s ability function in a variety of settings. Therapies available for individuals with ASD include behavior therapies, occupational therapy, speech therapy, psychological, educational, and/or skill-building interventions. These therapies are proven to be effective especially when began before the age of 3. (The National Institute of Mental Health, 2022).  The most recommended therapy to help treat the symptoms of ASD is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).  

Who to see: A Developmental Pediatrician, a Child Neurologist, a Child Psychologist or Psychiatrist can do an in-depth evaluation and make a diagnosis.

What they evaluate: The doctor will evaluate the individual’s behavior and developmental milestones.

When to diagnose: By the age of 2 an Autism diagnosis is considered reliable. However, signs of ASD may be present at the age of 18mo or younger.