We will talk about autism, what are autism spectrum disorders, and how autism spectrum disorder is diagnosed. Understanding the difference is critical.
Mislabeling, in any form, will always cause problems. This is true for autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The two terms are almost always confused and used interchangeably despite their differences. Plus, understanding the difference is critical in promoting awareness and support to individuals within the spectrum. In this article, we will talk about autism, what are autism spectrum disorders, and how autism spectrum disorder is diagnosed.
What are Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Historically, autism is the term used for people with a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the way they perceive and interact with the world around them. According to the World Health Organization, it is characterized by social interaction and communication difficulties. In addition, atypical patterns of activities and behaviors. For example, difficulty transitioning from one activity to another, focus on details, and unusual reactions to sensations.
However, understanding that people with autism manifest their symptoms in different types and severity. The American Psychiatric Association changed the term ‘autism’ to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It is now a broad term or category to properly diagnose the different levels of autism, as guided by DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).
What Are Autism Spectrum Disorders?
The sub-types of ASD are the following.
Classic Autism
It is characterized by significant and noticeable language/communication, learning, social interaction, and behavioral impairments.
Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
Observed severe and generalized impairment in the development of reciprocal social interaction associated with impaired communication skills and the presence of stereotyped behavior, interests, or activities.
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
It is a rare condition characterized by the late onset of developmental delays in language, social function, and motor skills around three or four years old.
Asperger Syndrome
It is characterized by impaired social communication and interaction, average or superior intelligence, and no significant language delay.
How Autism Spectrum Disorder is Diagnosed
The responsibility for how autism spectrum disorder is diagnosed heavily relies on the parents or guardians of children with perceived symptoms. If you notice or have observed that your child fails to reach typical developmental milestones for their age at an alarming rate, you may want to consult a doctor.
Doctors will then use DSM-5 to diagnose the type of ASD your child may have properly. In cases of persistent deficits in social communication/interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior. Their severity depends on the level of support your child may need:
- Level 1. requiring support
- Level 2. requiring substantial support
- Level 3. requires very substantial support
Understanding ASD and its specific manifestation on your child will help you and your child foster a supportive environment for growth and development. As communication is almost always the main concern for people with autism, speech therapy exercises may be beneficial to your child’s development.
Medical professionals and parents of autistic children trust Mylo as a speech therapy support app. It employs a video modeling method recognized by Harvard University and renowned institutions to support learners in expanding their vocabulary, comprehending instructions, and enhancing their expressive abilities. Although the Mylo app does not replace professional therapy, it provides an immersive journey accessible right from your device. Join our Mylo App community now!