Autism is described in the DSM-V as a psychiatric problem,
in which the patient has communication disorders and short attention span. The
Autistic person has a reduced ability to interact meaningfully with others.
This condition is usually present from early childhood and is also
characterised by difficulties in using language and understanding the intent of
others. Autism Symptoms may vary from one
person to another but there are some basic symptoms that are usually present
that can help in Autism Diagnosis. These symptoms can be placed under following
categories:
Social connections
and relations
·
Verbal and nonverbal interactions
·
Stereo typical play and/or reduced
interest in interactive play activities
·
Symptoms in social connections and relations may include notable difficulties
in nonverbal interactions and communication skills as for example in making
good eye-to-eye contact.
The child with Autism may be unable to make friends and may
have no ability to share interests or enjoyments with others. They lack empathy
as they often found it difficult to understand the feelings of other people;
and that may include recognising emotional upset, pain or sorrow in others.
Verbal and nonverbal interactions may include slow learning or lack of learning
capabilities. It has been found that nearly 40% of autistic patients never
speak. Children with Autism may find it difficult if not impossible to start a
meaningful conversation or continue a conversation with others. They often make
repetitive use of language, i.e. they may repeat a previously heard word or
phrase, again and again (a condition known as echolalia).
Sometimes, it is
difficult for children with Autism to understand other’s perspectives. For
example they might not understand when another person is joking, as they take
their words literally, and may not understand the hidden meanings and
metaphors. Partial interest in activities or other playing activities may
include an excessive focus on some part of a toy, such as spinning the wheels
on a car, without using the car as a vehicle.
Usually, older children and adults with Autism are overly
preoccupied with specific topics such as video games, license plates or trading
cards.
They prefer set routines, for example a child may be very upset if the
route to school is changed or if his breakfast food or bedtime routine is
changed. Many people with Autism also have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD) but in ADHD symptoms the problem of
social relationships is less serious as compared to Autism.
Sometimes, an autistic person may be able to memorise facts,
lists and dates more efficiently than others. They may also have unusual
sensory perceptions, for example, some may consider light touch as problematic
and disturbing while othere find a strong embrace as calming to their senses.
Some may appear insensitive to pain and some may have strong preferences for
specific foods. Sleep problems are also present in about 40%-70% of people with
Autism.
0 comments:
Post a Comment