Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) Diagnosis
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnoses are developmental disabilities that share many of the same core characteristics. Usually evident by age three, ASDs are neurological disorders that affect a child’s ability to communicate, understand language, play and relate to others.
ASDs occur nationally in approximately one in 110 children.* These disorders affect males more often than females, with one out of 70 boys being diagnosed with autism.* Some, or all, of the following characteristics may be observed in mild to severe forms of this condition:
· Communication problems (e.g., using and understanding language)
· Difficulty in relating to people in social situations
· Difficulty with changes in routine or familiar surroundings
· Unusual play with toys or other objects
· Engagement in repetitive activities and stereotyped motor movements
· Unusual responses to sensory experiences
Children with ASD vary widely in abilities, intelligence and behaviors. Some children do not speak--others have limited language that often includes repeating phrases they have heard before. A child with more advanced language skills tends to have difficulty using language in social situations and conversation and to have difficulty with abstract concepts. Repetitive play skills, a limited range of interests, and impaired social skills are generally evident as well. Unusual response to sensory information is also common.
*Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
**Autism Society of America
Early Intervention
Early intervention for children with autism and related disorders is critical, and diagnosis is possible as early as 18 months of age. With early intervention, a child may make significant progress—potentially increasing language and social skills as well as circumventing the development of aberrant behaviors. The goal of the Marcus Autism Center Early Intervention Program is to develop readiness skills, enabling children to successfully transition to community schools and kindergarten programs.
Click here for more information about the Early Intervention Program.
Examples, subsets and synonyms for ASD:
- Autism
- Pervasive developmental disorder
- Asperger's syndrome
- Childhood disintegrative disorder
Related Marcus Autism Center Programs
Additional Resources