Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Basics

Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are general terms used to describe a spectrum of developmental disorders characterized by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors. Although no two people with autism function exactly alike, common characteristics such as: difficulties in motor coordination, sensitivity to touch, smell, and loud sounds, an apparent indifference to social situations and people, and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances frequently occur in people identified with ASD (CSD, 2012). Repetitive movements such as rocking, twirling, flapping or self-abusive behavior such as biting, head banging, and screaming are common traits indentified as well. Frequently, children with characteristics of ASD have co-occurring conditions such as OCD, epilepsy, attention deficit disorder or learning disabilities that influence the unique functioning of the child.

The prevalence of autism is increasing in America and around the world. According to AutismSpeaks, ASD currently affects over 2 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identify around 1 in 88 American children as on the autism spectrum, which is a ten-fold increase in prevalence in the past 40 years (Autism Speaks, 2013). Furthermore, studies have found that boys are four to five times more likely to be identified with ASD than girls. Currently, 1 out of 54 boys and 1 in 252 girls are diagnosed with autism in the United States (Autism Speaks, 2013).  Although there is no established explanation for the cause or increasing statistics, scientists and doctors are starting to develop theories of how genetics and environmental factors influence autism to appear.