What
are Autistic Spectrum Disorders? (by
Dr Trisha Macnair & Dr Rob Hicks)
People with autism find it hard
to make sense of the world, which appears chaotic and frightening
and that has no clear boundaries, order or meaning.
Autism is a lifelong neuro-developmental disability that affects
the way a person communicates and severely limits their ability
to relate to others in a meaningful way, develop friendships
or understand other people's feelings.
Autism is often referred to as a spectrum disorder because of
the variation in type and severity of problems a child may experience.
Those most able to function normally within the autistic spectrum
are said to have Asperger's syndrome.
People with autism have a triad of impairments in social
interaction, social communication (verbal and non-verbal - they
don't understand the meaning of gestures, facial expressions
or tone of voice) - and imagination.
In general there may
be:
oo•
a failure to develop normal speech
• an absence of normal facial expression
and body language • a lack of eye contact
oo• a tendency to spend
time alone •
a lack of imaginative play
• repetitive behaviour
• obsession with particular topics, objects
or routines |
These behavioural difficulties can cause a great deal of stress
for members of the family. As many as 75 per cent of people
with autism have accompanying learning disabilities and 15-30%
per cent have seizures. A small percentage of people with autism
have an exceptional skill, such as an aptitude for drawing,
mathematics, or playing a musical instrument.
Who does autism affect?
Autism affects about 1 in 110 people in Scotland with a male
to female ratio of 4:1. Although autism can run in families,
the precise cause of autism remains unknown, it is not possible
to prevent it. Research shows that genetic factors are important.
Autism is also associated with a variety of conditions that
affect brain development before, during, or soon after birth.
These conditions may trigger autism in a person who is genetically
susceptible. There's no cure for autism. Maximising a child's
potential is the goal of treatment. This can be achieved through
appropriate specialist education, speech and language therapy,
as well as behavioural therapy. Medication is sometimes recommended
when it's felt to be of benefit to the child.
This article was last medically reviewed
by Dr Rob Hicks in December 2005.
Where can I find more
resources and support in the UK?
Along with local groups, there are a number of organisations
in the UK helping families affected by autism:
