Autism is one of many pervasive developmental disorders (PPDs) and is often referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The acronyms used to describe autism can, in themselves, be confusing. The term Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PPD) (of which autism is the most well-known), refers to a group of developmental conditions affecting children that encompasses impairments and delays in social skills and communication. All PPDs affect communication, behavior, cognitive, and social skills, but they are not all alike. Most PPDs are diagnosed by age 3. Autism diagnoses are based on observation of behavior, not on medical tests.
Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is the term we usually hear when we read about autism. As the term “spectrum” implies, there are degrees to which individuals are affected by autism, and the term ASD is used to encompass a range of severity of symptoms. Two children may share the same diagnosis, but they may exhibit different degrees of behavioral symptoms.
How does Autism Affect Children?
Most useful for parents, though, is not so much what terminology is used to describe autism, but rather how the disorder manifests itself and affects those who have this complex neuro-biological impairment. As the Autism Society of America reports, “Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.”
Children on the autism spectrum have difficulty interacting with or playing with others. These difficulties include avoiding eye contact or being averse to being held or touched. Delays in development of physical, cognitive, social and emotional skills and language acquisition and use (or the achievement and then loss of developmental skills) are also hallmarks of autism.
What Causes Autism?
Although research is ongoing, there is currently no consensus as to the cause of autism. Genetics and environmental factors may play a role in the development of the disorder, but research has not established any definitive links.
There has been much speculation about whether thimerosal (mercury)-containing vaccines can cause autism. No research has found a link between vaccines and autism, and nearly all vaccines have been thimerosal-free since 2001. Researchers do know that parenting styles are not a factor in whether a child is affected by autism.
References and Additional Resources:
Visit the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development website here. Also read Autism Speaks’What is Autism?