Autism symptoms are generally evident during early childhood when kids are 12 to 24 months old. But it is common for symptoms to appear earlier or later than this age range as well. With advances in medical science, autism treatment programs including ABA therapy and other treatment options can help children lead more satisfying and fulfilling lives.
Autism symptoms generally start to become evident in early childhood, though they may not be recognized and considered part of the normal development process. Babies may exhibit such symptoms as lacking eye contact, avoiding socializing with others, and being overly focused on one thing. These symptoms will persist and interfere with daily life.
What Is Autism?
Autism, more specifically autism spectrum disorder (ASD), includes a wide range of neurodevelopmental disorders that are primarily characterized by compromised social functioning and difficulties with communication. The precise causes of ASD are not known but are believed to include both environmental and genetic factors.
ASD does not have a cure available, but there are many treatment options such as ASD treatment programs and ABA therapy programs that can be applied depending on the needs of the individual.
Symptoms of ASD
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–5) includes the official guidelines concerning ASD published by the American Psychiatric Association. It separates autism symptoms into two categories that include problems with social interaction and communication as well as repetitive behaviors and activities. Healthcare specialists diagnose ASD based on a checklist covering each of these categories. Also, diagnosis includes assessing the severity of autism symptoms in the individual. Early intervention programs for autism spectrum disorder provide essential support as the child or young adult grows.
Social Interaction
Difficulty in forming and sustaining healthy relationships can be hurdles for children with ASD. These challenges usually stem from autism symptoms that include:
- Recognizing the emotions and intentions of others
- Recognizing their own emotions
- Effectively expressing their emotions
- Feeling overwhelmed by social engagements
- Taking turns speaking during a conversation
- Gauging the appropriate personal space when socializing
Communication
People with ASD can experience difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication. These difficulties can result from a variety of autism symptoms.
And typically, people with ASD can have problems in communication that arise from challenges that include:
- Use of spoken language
- Proper use of gestures
- Adequate eye contact
- Appropriate facial expressions
- An effective tone of voice
- Misunderstanding statements that are not intended to be taken literally
Repetitive Behaviors
The use of repetitive behaviors can vary a lot among individuals with ASD. But common examples of repetitive behaviors for people with ASD include:
- Repetitive body movements such as flapping, rocking, spinning, and running back and forth
- Repetitive motions involving objects like shaking sticks, spinning wheels, or flipping levers
- Excessive staring at things that are spinning or at lights
- Ritualistic behaviors that can include touching objects in a set order or lining up objects in a particular way
- Narrow and possibly extreme interests in particular topics
- A required set routine and a strong resistance to change that can include the same daily schedule, standard clothes, a set meal menu, and a specific route to school
Learn to Recognize Autism Symptoms
It is important to look for autism symptoms in children if you suspect there may be something wrong in your child’s development. Learning to speak at a relatively late age, avoiding eye contact, or not actively playing with other children could be telling signs that you should seek the help of a medical professional. By proactively pursuing an early diagnosis and finding targeted intervention for autism spectrum disorder, your child will be in a better position to experience early intervention and customized treatment. This way, they are more likely to experience a healthy and fulfilling life.