Autism disorders autism is a condition that affects communication and social interaction. It can range from very mild to severe, and it impacts people in different ways.
Most people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have difficulty with social interaction and communication. They may avoid eye contact, have trouble understanding nonverbal cues like body language or facial expressions, and prefer not to be touched. People with ASD may also have repetitive behaviors or interests, such as lining up toys or flapping their hands. These behaviors are often called “stimming.”
ASD can be diagnosed by looking at the individual’s behavior and development. Doctors often use screening tools, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) or the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). A diagnosis of ASD can be made when a person meets a certain number of criteria from these tools.
There is no one-size-fits-all autism treatment, but there are many therapies that can help people with ASD improve their symptoms. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is one of the most well-researched autism treatments. ABA uses techniques to change behavior and help people with ASD learn new skills.
If you think your child may have autism, talk to your doctor. The earlier autism is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin. Early intervention can make a big difference in the lives of people with ASD.