The Autism Spectrum
What is autism?
Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder. The symptoms become apparent during infancy or early childhood and continue throughout a person's life. Children with autism become adults with autism.
Autism can vary widely in severity from person to person and for this reason the term Autistic Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is often used. Asperger syndrome is a form of autism.
What causes autism?
Although many genetic and environmental causes have been proposed, what causes autism and how it occurs are not well understood. It is most likely a combination of factors that account for changes in the development of the brain.
Is there a cure?
There is no cure. However, as our understanding of the condition improves and the services available continue to develop, there are more opportunities for people with an Autism Spectrum Disorder to reach their full potential.
What are the symptoms of autism?
Although individual symptoms of autism can occur in the general population, autism is distinguished by a pattern of symptoms rather than one single symptom. There is a triad of core symptoms - difficulty with social interaction, difficulty with social communication, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped behaviour, interests and activities.
How is autism diagnosed?
There is no single diagnostic test. A thorough diagnostic assessment, carried out by an experienced clinician, will include a review of the person's developmental and family history, and a profile of their behaviour and abilities.
What is Asperger syndrome?
Asperger syndrome is a form of autism. It affects how a person makes sense of the world, processes information and relates to other people. Like autism, Asperger syndrome can affect people in many different ways and to varying degrees.
Asperger syndrome is mostly a 'hidden disability' - you can't tell that someone has the condition from their outward appearance.
While there are similarities with autism, people with Asperger syndrome tend to have fewer problems with speaking. They are often of average, or above average, intelligence, but may have specific learning difficulties. These may include dyslexia and dyspraxia or other conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and epilepsy.
How is Asperger syndrome diagnosed?
Making a diagnosis can be difficult, because Asperger syndrome varies widely from person to person. Sometimes difficulties may not be recognised and diagnosed until adulthood. The typical route for getting a diagnosis is to visit a GP. He or she can refer an individual to other health professionals who can carry out a thorough diagnostic assessment and make a formal diagnosis.
How does diagnosis help?
Some people see a formal diagnosis of Asperger syndrome as an unhelpful label. For others however, a diagnosis can help the individual, families, friends, partners, carers, professionals and colleagues to better understand and manage their needs and behaviour. It can also be the key needed to open the door to specialised support.
Adults with Asperger syndrome may feel a lack of social support, meaningful relationships, and future employment opportunities. With the right support and encouragement, people with Asperger syndrome can lead full and independent lives.