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3.

Autism

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

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Developmental impairment known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is brought on by variations in the brain. Individuals with ASD may struggle with confined or repetitive activities or interests, as well as social communication and engagement. Moreover, people with ASD may learn, move, or pay attention in various ways. It is crucial to remember that some individuals without ASD may also experience some of these symptoms. Nonetheless, these traits can make life very difficult for those with ASD.

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Social Communication & Interactive Skills

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Social communication and interaction skills can be challenging for people with ASD.

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Examples of social communication and social interaction characteristics related to ASD can include

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  • Avoids or does not keep eye contact

  • Does not respond to name by 9 months of age

  • Does not show facial expressions like happy, sad, angry, and surprised by 9 months of age

  • Does not play simple interactive games like pat-a-cake by 12 months of age

  • Uses few or no gestures by 12 months of age (for example, does not wave goodbye)

  • Does not share interests with others by 15 months of age (for example, shows you an object that they like)

  • Does not point to show you something interesting by 18 months of age

  • Does not notice when others are hurt or upset by 24 months of age

  • Does not notice other children and join them in play by 36 months of age

  • Does not pretend to be something else, like a teacher or superhero, during play by 48 months of age

  • Does not sing, dance, or act for you by 60 months of age

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Restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior:

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Individuals with ASD can exhibit peculiar habits or hobbies. ASD differs from conditions that are only characterised by issues with social interaction and communication by virtue of these behaviours or interests.
Examples of restricted or repetitive ASD-related activities and interests include:

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  • Lines up toys or other objects and gets upset when order is changed

  • Repeats words or phrases over and over (called echolalia)

  • Plays with toys the same way every time

  • Is focused on parts of objects (for example, wheels)

  • Gets upset by minor changes

  • Has obsessive interests

  • Must follow certain routines

  • Flaps hands, rocks body, or spins self in circles

  • Has unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel

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Treatment

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The first line of treatment for autism is pharmacotherapy along with Play therapy sessions and or speech therapy depending on the requirement of the child.

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