Autism

Understanding Autism a Little Better

By Anna Simulis, LCSW-C, Lower Shore Early Intervention Program

Autism is a growing concern in childhood mental health.  It seems the diagnosis has multiplied several times since even a decade ago.  However, even though more awareness than ever is being brought to this diagnosis, adults are still unclear as to how to pinpoint what Autism really is and what to do if the symptoms exist. 

The first things to consider are the symptoms that qualify a child for Autism.  The diagnostic manual used for mental health professionals explains that there are 3 major categories of symptoms that must exist in order for a diagnosis to be considered; impairment in social interactions, impairments in communication, and restricted repetitive and stereotypes patterns of behavior, interests and activities (DSM IV, 2003).  Now, I am sure many of you are thinking that describes most of my kids but there are specific symptoms in each of the three categories that have to be met.

 Impairment in Social Interaction

·         Impairment in the use of non-verbal behaviors such as eye contact, facial expressions, body posture or gestures

·         Failure to develop peer relationships

·         A lack of spontaneous seeking to share enjoyment or interests with others (that kid who could play all day by himself)

·         Lack of social and emotional reciprocity

 Impairment in Communication

·         Delay in or total lack of spoken language

·         Impairment in ability to sustain or initiate a conversation

·         Repetitive use of language

·         Lack of make-believe or imitative play

 Restricted Repetitive Stereotypes Behaviors

·         Obsessive preoccupation with one interests that is abnormal in intensity

·         Inflexibility to routines (the one who has a meltdown if today for a change you do circle before snack)

·         Repetitive motor mannerisms

·         Preoccupation with parts of objects (taking stuff apart)

In order to qualify for an Autism diagnosis a child needs to exhibit at least 6 of these symptoms and at least one from each category.  Also, most interestingly the behaviors have to have existed prior to age 3. 

These children are often difficult to handle in a classroom and can be labeled as defiant, ADHD, needy etc.  It is important that we have all the information and if we have concerns we discuss them with the parents.  Only a doctor or mental health clinician can give a diagnosis.  If you feel more information about Autism would help to enrich your skills please call the Lower Shore Early Intervention Program at 410-677-6590.  Also, please consider coming to our February 6^th training at SU on early intervention for children with Autism.  There are many resources available for these families but many go undiagnosed or worse, misdiagnosed.  We are the front lines in identifying these children and getting them the help they need to become the successful adults they can be.  

Get more information on signs, symptoms and treatment options at:

 http://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism/symptoms

(Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition, 2003)