Understanding Autism Beyond the Stereotypes
Written By: Laila Ibrahim
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges with speech, social skills, and non-verbal behaviors. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 100 children are affected by autism globally, and 1 in 36 children are affected by autism in the United States alone, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The severity and range of autism symptoms vary widely. Autism can affect someone’s behavioral, developmental, cognitive, and psychological functions. The most common symptoms include, but are not limited to, repetitive behaviors, impulsivity, unusual sleeping or eating habits, and much more. However, it is difficult to pinpoint autism to a set of symptoms or actions, as it is a diverse spectrum. Originally, the autism spectrum consisted of five major types: Asperger’s syndrome, Rett syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, Kanner syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). Each type of ASD was classified based on key differences in behavioral patterns, communication skills, and social interaction.
Individuals with Asperger syndrome often have strong language skills, and high intellectual ability, but they tend to struggle with social interactions. They also have repetitive behaviors, with an intense focus on specific interests, and an inability (or difficulty) to change behaviors. Rett syndrome primarily affects women and is characterized by a loss of speech, motor skills, and cognitive ability. The loss of these functions occurs after a period of normal development, with symptoms including scoliosis, seizures, and breathing issues. Children affected with Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD) lose their previously developed skills after age 3. This is a rare condition and the cause is unclear, but researchers believe that it may be caused by protein build-up in the brain. Symptoms include loss of bowel control and loss of language and motor skills. Kanner’s syndrome, discovered by Leo Kanner, is characterized by extreme communication problems, repetitive behaviors, and a lack of emotional attachment. Lastly, Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), was discovered, when an individual’s symptoms did not match the criteria for other types of autism.
However, the DSM-5 redefined these distinct types of disorders under a single diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This diagnosis more accurately reflects the wide range of symptoms and severity levels individuals experience. The exact cause of autism remains unknown, though research suggests that it results from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If an individual has a family history of ASD, they are more likely to develop autism, than someone without a family history of ASD. Other external factors that may increase someone’s chances of developing ASD would be advanced parental age, birth complications, and even maternal immune system disorders.
Due to the recent discovery of autism, with its first diagnosis being in 1943, those with ASD have faced years of prejudice and discrimination. Autism has been stigmatized and severely misunderstood, which has led to negative perceptions and misconceptions of the disorder. Because of this stigma, individuals with autism have faced difficulties in educational institutions, employment, and social acceptance.
On a more positive note, awareness about autism has greatly increased over the years. There has been a greater emphasis put on creating environments that are more accommodating and accepting of people with ASD, in schools, workplaces, and even on social media! It’s important to understand that autism is not a disease that needs to be “cured”, but a neurodevelopmental difference that reflects human diversity and variety. Educating oneself about autism is essential in ensuring that those with ASD are treated with respect and equality.
References:
Autism Speaks. "What Is Autism?" Autism Speaks, www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Autism Data and Statistics." CDC, 25 Jan. 2024, www.cdc.gov/autism/data-research/index.html.
World Health Organization. "Autism Spectrum Disorders." WHO, 7 Sept. 2023, www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/autism-spectrum-disorders.
Mbbs, S. M. (2021, November 30). What are the 5 different types of autism? Diagnosis, treatment. MedicineNet. https://www.medicinenet.com/what_are_the_5_different_types_of_autism/article.htm
