Autism Awareness Month

Posted 2 April 2013

About 1 in 160 children aged between 6 and 12 are diagnosed with autism or an autism spectrum disorder.

What is autism?

Autism is a developmental disability that affects the way a person communicates and how they experience the world around them.

Autism affects individuals differently and to varying degrees, which is why it is considered a spectrum condition.

The 3 main areas impacted by autism are:

• Communication—for example, difficulty interpreting things like facial expressions or tone of voice
• Social interaction—including expressing feelings or needs, or distinguishing between familiar and unfamiliar people
• Social imagination—a person with autism may find it difficult to prepare for change or plan for the future.

Diagnosis

Generally, autism is diagnosed during childhood, when a child is referred to a specialist such as a paediatrician or psychologist. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (IV) provides a set of criteria for diagnosing autism; however, there is not just one test for diagnosis. A range of assessments are often used and a number of specialists or professionals may be involved before a diagnosis is made. Interestingly, more males than females are diagnosed with autism but no-one knows why. 

Cause

As with all autism spectrum disorders, including autism, there is no known cause. It is believed that there may be a combination of genetic and environmental factors involved, but there is no conclusive evidence.

Treatment

Accurate and early diagnosis of autism is very important as it ensures a child can receive appropriate treatment as soon as possible. There are many treatment options available, including speech therapy and social skills training.

More information

• AEIOU—provides an education program for children aged 2.5 to 5 who have been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Autism Queensland—provides specialised services and support for people with autism and their families.
• Raising Children Network—comprehensive resources and information for parents of children with autism and autism spectrum disorders.
• My Child Has Autism - a guide for families of young children