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Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the way a person perceives the world, interacts with others and processes information.
Nowadays, we talk about the autism spectrum, as symptoms and the level of support required can vary greatly.
There is still a lack of reliable information on this subject, which is why many myths hinder early diagnosis and access to help.
What is the autism spectrum?
The autism spectrum (autism spectrum, autism spectrum disorder, or autism for short) encompasses various types of autism, such as childhood autism, atypical autism, what was formerly known as Asperger’s syndrome (Asperger’s), and rare atypical features associated with the autism spectrum.
All these forms fall within the autism spectrum, also referred to as the spectrum of autistic disorders.
Autism is diagnosed as a neurodevelopmental disorder with a genetic basis, although the causes of autism are multifactorial.
The autism spectrum often becomes apparent in early childhood, and visible signs of autism may appear before the age of 3, and most commonly by the age of 3.
Early signs of autism in children
The early signs of autism can be subtle. The first signs of autism may include limited social interaction, delayed speech development or difficulty responding when called by name.
Symptoms of autism in children also include a lack of, or limited, eye contact, and difficulties in interpreting facial expressions and gestures.
In some children, the symptoms of autism appear very early – even in children under the age of 3. Infants may not point with their finger, share attention or respond to their carers’ emotions.
A child’s behaviour may be repetitive, and their behavioural patterns may be rigid and inflexible.
Sensory difficulties, such as hypersensitivity to sounds, smells or touch, are also common. Stereotypical hand movements, rocking or spinning objects may occur.
All these symptoms of autism can affect a child’s development and their day-to-day functioning.
Do you need some help?
Diagnosis of autism at the Dialog Centre for Children and Families
We carry out a comprehensive psychological assessment of the autism spectrum — thoroughly, providing a complete picture of the child’s potential and recommendations for the school.
Autism in children – when should you be concerned?
If you have concerns about your child’s behaviour, it is worth remembering that not every delay indicates a disorder.
However, the combination of symptoms, their severity and the lack of developmental progress should point to autism spectrum disorder.
In such situations, you should consult a specialist – a psychologist, a paediatric neurologist or a child psychiatrist.
Symptoms of autism in adolescents
The symptoms of autism in adolescents often differ from those observed in young children. Teenagers may find it difficult to interact socially, to understand social norms, or to grasp irony or metaphors.
Problems arise when trying to adapt to the surroundings, which requires a great deal of effort.
At this age, the symptoms of autism can be masked, and they are not always obvious to those around the person. Autism spectrum disorder often manifests itself through withdrawal, social anxiety or sensory overload.
Who makes the diagnosis, and how?
An accurate diagnosis is a process. A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is based on a clinical history, behavioural observation, tests and an analysis of development.
A team of specialists is often involved: a psychologist, a teacher, a speech and language therapist and a psychiatrist.
A diagnostic interview and standardised tools are used.
An accurate diagnosis of autism enables appropriate support to be provided and improves quality of life. In clinical practice, various diagnoses of autism are encountered, depending on the individual’s functional profile.
Is autism more common in boys?
Research suggests that autism is more common in men than in women. It is sometimes less readily recognised in girls, as their pattern of symptoms is less specific and more often masked.
Autism and everyday functioning
A person with autism may experience the world more intensely – both cognitively and sensorially.
The autistic way of processing information is not a disorder, but a different style of neurodevelopment.
Autism is often accompanied by specific interests, a high level of concentration and a need for predictability.
A person on the autism spectrum may find it difficult to interact with others, but at the same time has enormous potential.
People on the autism spectrum differ from one another more than they resemble a single pattern.
When should you seek help?
If you notice signs of autism in a child, teenager or adult, it is worth taking action. An early diagnosis increases the chances of effective support. If you have any concerns, you can complete a screening test and then discuss the results with a specialist.
This applies both to children with autism and to adults, among whom autism is being diagnosed with increasing frequency.
Do you need some help?
Diagnosis of autism at the Dialog Centre for Children and Families
We carry out a comprehensive psychological assessment of the autism spectrum — thoroughly, providing a complete picture of the child’s potential and recommendations for the school.
Summary
Symptoms of autism can appear at various stages of life and vary in severity. Both the symptoms of autism in children and those in young people require careful monitoring. Early identification, an accurate diagnosis and personalised support enable people on the autism spectrum to function more effectively and build fulfilling lives.
Bibliography:
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). DSM-5-TR. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.). APA Publishing.
- Lord, C., Elsabbagh, M., Baird, G., & Veenstra-VanderWeele, J. (2018). Autism spectrum disorder. The Lancet, 392(10146), 508–520.
- World Health Organisation. (2019). ICD-11: International Classification of Diseases. WHO.
- Pisula, E. (2012). Autism: From Brain Research to Psychological Practice. Gdańsk Psychological Publishing House.
- Baron-Cohen, S. (2017). *The Pattern Seekers: How Autism Drives Human Invention*. Allen Lane.
- Frith, U. (2008). Autism: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press.
- Attwood, T. (2015). The Complete Guide to Asperger’s Syndrome. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
- Rynkiewicz, A., & Łucka, I. (2018). Autism spectrum disorders in girls and women. Psychiatria Polska, 52(4), 629–639.
- Bölte, S., et al. (2019). Sex and gender differences in autism spectrum disorder. Molecular Autism, 10, 27.
- Johnson, C. P., & Myers, S. M. (2007). Identification and assessment of children with autism spectrum disorders. *Pediatrics*, 120(5), 1183–1215.
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Diagnosis of autism at the Dialog Centre for Children and Families
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