Understanding autism: 3 things you should know

Posted: February 9, 2018

[caption id="attachment_11570" align="alignright" width="450"] People with Autism Spectrum Disorder often struggle to read social cues.[/caption] Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disability that is not always well understood. This is, in part, because those who are on the autism spectrum may function at very different levels. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) defines Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as, "the name for a group of developmental disorders. ASD includes a wide range … of symptoms, skills and levels of disability." According to the NIMH, boys are more likely than girls to develop Autism Spectrum Disorder. Having a sibling with ASD and being born to older parents also are risk factors.

Difficulty with social cues

Dr. Justin Schoen, a Marshfield Clinic psychiatrist, said Autism Spectrum Disorder presents in two main ways, socially and cognitively. "People with ASD have difficulty reading social cues and with social interaction in general," Schoen said. Other symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder include:

• Engaging in repetitive behaviors, like rocking in a chair
• Not making eye contact
• Getting upset by slight changes in routine

"The spectrum is massive," Schoen said. "There are people on the spectrum leading independent, successful lives. But there are also those who require constant care."

Savant syndrome

Some people who fall on the spectrum have special skills or talents. These people are known as savants, and the presence of their unique abilities is rare. These special skills may be in math, science, music, art or other fields. "Some of the theory behind that is because they aren't relying on the social cues that many of us are so reliant on, it frees up their minds to focus on other things," Schoen said.

Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder

In terms of treating Autism Spectrum Disorder, much depends on where on the spectrum a person falls. Intervening early in children with ASD can help them make strides and assimilate better in society as they develop. "It's also really important for the care team, family and anyone else involved in helping a person with Autism Spectrum Disorder, to be consistent," Schoen said. "For people who already struggle to understand social cues and subtleties, it is really important for everyone working with them to be on the same page." If you are concerned about signs of ASD in a child or a loved one, contact a primary care provider.