LivingWhat is autism?

What is autism?

Autism is the result of a neurological disorder that affects brain function and typically appears during the first three years of life. Autism and its associated behaviors occur in 1 in 59 individuals, although it is four times more common in boys than in girls. It is the third most common developmental disability, even more common than Down Syndrome.

It is commonly referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD because there is a great variability of symptoms among individuals who suffer from it. However, there are a number of common characteristics.

According to the Autism Society , the person with autism is characterized by deficiencies in verbal and non-verbal communication, in social interactions and in play activities . In addition, they may present repetitive movements (shaking the hand or rocking the body), attachment to objects and resistance to any change in routine . In some cases, they show aggressiveness.

Also, people with Autism Spectrum Disorder may have more disorders. About 10% of children with ASD have an additional genetic, neurological, or metabolic disorder, such as epilepsy, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Tuberous sclerosis, intellectual disability, or anxiety.

Since 2013, the Diagnostic Manual of Mental Disorders includes Asperger’s Syndrome and autism under the umbrella of Spectrum of Autism Disorders. However, traditionally Aspeger was viewed as a disorder other than autism. In fact, who coined the term in 1934, Hans Asperger, defined it as a disorder of communication skills and social relationships in extremely intelligent children.

In addition, both disorders are usually included under the label of Pervasive Developmental Disorders ; But there is much disagreement among professionals about its classification, since the fact that it is done correctly can greatly influence the diagnosis and, therefore, the guidelines to be followed by families could be counterproductive or useless.

Although the exact causes of autism are not known , research suggests that both genes and environmental factors may be involved. A widespread myth about autism and its related disorders is that it is related in some way to the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella). There is no scientific evidence that this is the case; in fact, the research published by the prestigious journal PNAS was withdrawn and refuted by the publication itself, as it was shown that the author of it falsified its results in order to gain professional prestige.

 

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