Symptoms of Autism

Autism spectrum disorders are life-long neurological conditions that are present at birth. Although estimates vary, it appears that approximately 6/1000 children are affected. The disorders are variable: some children are profoundly developmentally delayed and have no language, while others are only mildly affected with average or above average intelligence and functional language. The first signs are usually noticeable by 12 to 24 months of age.

Examples of some of the symptoms of autism spectrum disorders are:

Reciprocal social interaction

• Poor use of gaze and pointing to share interest with others
• Failure to understand others’ facial expressions
• Difficulties with relationships with children and adults
• Inability to understand that other people have their own thoughts and beliefs (“Theory of Mind”)

Verbal and nonverbal communication

• Delayed or absent speech
• Peculiar speech patterns (e.g., mimicking others)
• Language or gestures are not used to convey meaning to others

Preference for solitary, repetitive activities

• Failure to take part in imaginative play with toys (don’t “play pretend”)
• Engaging in rocking or spinning movements
• Becoming fascinated by movement of objects

Most children with autism spectrum disorders do respond to treatment, but it is a case of “the sooner the better” because the best gains seem to be made if early intervention (prior to the age of six) is made. Unfortunately, diagnosis is often delayed because many practitioners do not recognize the early signs of autism spectrum disorders, and treatment may be compromised because good, evidence-based treatment are not be available in all areas of the country.