Tell-Tale Signs Of Autism

Worried your child may be autistic? Here are the warning signs to look out for.

- Angel Drewgus

The autism spectrum is very broad, ranging from a brilliant scientist to a person who remains with a severe disability. It is true that some people with ASD are geniuses, but not everyone is. Autism is all around us. Early identification of ASD and early provision of treatment can improve outcomes for many affected children.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is genetic in origin. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) causes children to have communication and social difficulties. Most children with ASD have a language delay, explains Dr Kang Ying Qi, consultant, Child Development Unit, National University Hospital. Children without delays in language may not effectively use language in daily or social situations. Socialisation is affected, so is play, imagination and learning (the child is unable to contextualise and apply daily social experiences to make connections in learning). Children with ASD have varying intellectual abilities. Some children have average to high intelligence while some can have an intellectual disability. They also have restricted interests and can be rigid in their ways. Some children may display atypical behaviours. It is a life-long condition, although the symptoms and behaviours often change as the child grows.

What Causes Autism?

There is no one cause of autism, says Dr Kang. Most cases of autism appear to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that may affect brain development before or around the time of birth, which may alter brain connections or chemicals.

Autism is not caused by a child’s upbringing and social circumstances. It is not due to the fault of the individual with autism.