What is Autism?
Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex neurological and developmental condition that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world. It manifests through challenges in social communication, restricted behaviors, and repetitive activities. Symptoms typically appear before the age of three but can remain undiagnosed until later in life. Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning it presents with a wide range of abilities and challenges, varying greatly from person to person.
The Rising Autism Rates
The prevalence of autism has increased dramatically in recent decades. According to a CDC study conducted in 11 states, 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism. This represents a significant rise from previous decades, where rates were as low as 1 in 500 when my son Lucas was diagnosed. Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls, though the condition occurs across all racial, regional, and socioeconomic lines.
What Causes Autism?
Despite years of research, autism does not have a single known cause. Instead, it is linked to a combination of genetic and environmental factors:
- Genetic Influences: Studies show up to 100 genes may contribute to autism. But, it is not the only factor that may cause autism. Identical twins have a 96% chance of both having autism if one is diagnosed, though their symptoms can differ.
- Environmental Factors: Prenatal exposure to chemicals, toxins, or viral infections, as well as premature birth or low birth weight, are associated with an increased risk.
While these factors are influential, no single trigger has been identified.
Diagnosing Autism
Despite advancements in medical technology, autism diagnosis remains a clinical process based on behavioral assessments. Some common tools include:
- M-CHAT: A free, parent-administered screening test for young children.
- ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule): Conducted by trained professionals for comprehensive evaluation.
Early diagnosis is crucial, as it allows for timely interventions that can significantly impact development.
Signs and Symptoms of Autism
Early Indicators
- Limited eye contact or lack of response to social cues like responding to their name
- Delayed speech development or atypical language use (e.g., echolalia or scripting)
- Difficulty pointing, imitating, or engaging in joint attention
Behavioral Traits
- Repetitive behaviors such as hand-flapping, rocking, or lining up objects
- Strong preferences for routines and resistance to change
- Sensory sensitivities, such as overreaction to sounds or textures
It’s important to note that some traits may also occur in typically developing children, so evaluation by professionals is essential.
Controversies Surrounding Autism
The field of autism research and advocacy has seen its share of controversies:
- Changing Definitions: The DSM-5, introduced in 2013, combined several distinct diagnoses, like Asperger’s Syndrome, under the umbrella of ASD. While this streamlined diagnosis, it also sparked debates about erasing important distinctions.
- Acceptance vs. Awareness: Advocacy movements have debated whether autism should be viewed as a neurological difference to embrace or a condition to address through interventions. Some still believe we should use the term “autism awareness” while others prefer “autism acceptance”
- Role of Self-Advocacy: Social media has amplified the voices of autistic adults, sometimes conflicting with the perspectives of parents advocating for children with severe challenges. They are advocating for autism as a whole while there is a subset of individuals, like my son, who need lifelong care.
These discussions highlight the spectrum’s diversity and the need for nuanced understanding and perspective-taking.
Is Autism a Lifelong Condition?
While autism is often considered a lifelong condition, there is evidence that significant improvements can occur, especially with early and effective interventions. A 2023 study from Boston Children’s Hospital found that 37% of children diagnosed with autism between ages 1 and 3 no longer met the criteria later in life. Such progress underscores the importance of early detection and tailored support. The study also highlighted that toddlers that were diagnosed should be reevaluated.
Michelle’s daughter from my online courses went from 3 words to over 500 words in just over 30 days with no other interventions and shows with the right interventions major improvements can happen.
Steps for Parents and Caregivers
If you suspect autism or your child has already been diagnosed, here are three critical steps to take:
1. Complete an Early Childhood Assessment
Tools like the Barbera Early Childhood Assessment™ (BECA) can help identify strengths and areas of need in self-care, language, and problem behaviors.
2. Compare Milestones
Use the CDC’s Early Childhood Milestones to understand where your child may need support. If delays are identified, seek professional evaluation and begin interventions as early as possible.
3. Learn and Implement Proven Strategies
Become the “captain of the ship” for your child’s development. Engage in resources like the Turn Autism Around approach, which focuses on child-friendly strategies to improve language, behavior, and daily living skills.
The Power of Early Intervention
Early and targeted interventions have been proven to make significant differences in the lives of children with autism. Strategies focusing on communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviors can lead to remarkable progress. Parents and professionals alike can benefit from evidence-based programs that
My online courses provide guidance that can begin before a diagnosis and while parents are on waitlists.
Wrapping up What is Autism in 2025
Understanding autism is a journey that requires empathy, education, and proactive action. While challenges exist, so does the potential for tremendous growth and achievement. By focusing on early detection, individualized support, and inclusive advocacy, we can create a better future for individuals with autism and their families.
Explore More
Visit Turn Autism Around for free resources, assessment tools, and courses designed to support children with autism and their families. Share this guide to help others navigate the autism journey with hope and understanding.