Autism is now commonly called ASD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, because it includes a wide range or spectrum of symptoms. These include Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, and PDD NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified). All of these disabilities can cause problems in social interaction, communication, and the presence of unusual behaviors and interests. Many people with ASD have unusual ways of learning, paying attention, and reacting to different sensations. The thinking and learning abilities of people with ASD can vary – from gifted to severely challenged. An ASD begins before the age of 3 and lasts throughout a person’s life.
ASDs occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups and are four times more prevalent in boys than girls. Autism is more and more common, affecting an estimated 1 in 150 births (Center for Disease Control Prevention, 2007).
Michigan Special Education Rule for ASD (R 340.1715 Autism spectrum disorder defined) (Go to Page 9 of 62 in the PDF):
www.michigan.gov/documents/mde/RulesSOAHR_231052_7.pdf
Every child with Autism is different; however, there are some common characteristics that may occur. It is important to remember that although the following are some common characteristics, no two people with Autism experience the world or behave the same way.
Some Common Characteristics
- Poorly developed social skills and interactions with others.
- Unusual play patterns with toys.
- Difficulty in using and understanding language (individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome often have no problem with language).
- Repetitive behaviors such as spinning objects or rocking.
- May exhibit self-talk, repeating phrases over and over, or humming.
- Difficulty with judgment or reasoning.
- Difficulty with changes of surroundings or routines.
- Problems with attention, sequencing, or multi-stepped tasks.
- Uneven skill development, including skills which are normal or superior for their age while others skills show significant delay.
- Difficulty generalizing information or expectations from one setting to another.
- Challenging behaviors such as aggression, self-injury, or severe withdrawal.
- Over or under sensitivity to sound, sight, taste, touch or smell.