What is Autism?

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is an umbrella term used to describe a complex brain developmental disorder commonly found in children. Among other things, autism primarily affects the way children interact with others and their surroundings as well as how they communicate. Previously, autism was broken up into subtypes including autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified and Asperger syndrome, however, now they are all grouped under ASD.

Common deficits associated with ASD include:

• Verbal and non-verbal communication:
  • Delay or lack of ability in learning to talk.
  • Difficulty starting conversations and continuing with the conversation.
  • Stereotyped and repetitive use of language.
  • Difficulty understanding the listener’s perspective.
• Social awareness and interactions:
  • Problems developing nonverbal communication skills i.e. eye-to-eye gaze, facial expressions and body posture.
  • Failure to develop friendships with other children the same age.
  • Lack of interest in sharing enjoyment, interests or achievements with others.
  • Lack of empathy.
• Imaginative play (variable interests and behaviours):
  • Unusual focus on pieces or parts of toys.
  • Preoccupation with certain topics.
  • A strong need for routines or sameness.
  • Stereotyped behaviours including body rocking or hand flapping.