subject: Signs And Symptoms Of Autism - My Autism Support [print this page] Signs And Symptoms Of Autism - My Autism Support
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). Autistic people may have a range of symptoms, including physical, intellectual, psychological and emotional differences. So, what are the signs and symptoms of Autism?
Autism is often diagnosable even before the child reaches the age of three. In infants, you may notice the following: displays lack of interest in toys, appears content to be alone, appears indifferent to his surroundings, display lack of response to other people, does not point out objects of interests to others, resists cuddling, and marked reduction or increase in activity level.
Children with Autism usually retain these characteristics and can be easily observed to have difficulty with social interactions. As mentioned, they avoid cuddling or touching, and they maintain little or no eye contact. They usually prefer to play alone and are unable to establish relationships with other children their own age. They are unresponsive to normal teaching methods and verbal clues, and seldom communicate with others. When they do initiate talks, they are unable to sustain the conversation. They display sustained abnormal play, uneven motor skills, and over- or undersensitivity to pain. They exhibit inappropriate attachment to objects rather than persons, and they frequently have behavioral outbursts or tantrums.
Autistic children are also characterized by their love for routines and rituals. They are restricted, inflexible, and even obsessive in their activities and interests. They follow a rigid routine, and are easily bothered by any change to it. They have difficulty adapting to any changes in schedule or environment, and they often repeat the same actions or movements over and over again. You might see hand flapping, rocking, or spinning among children with Autism.
Although the signs and symptoms of Autism may vary from person to person, these are the most common ones you will find in any child with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
