Behavioral Directions, LLC

Autism is a neurobiological disorder with no clear cause in which symptoms appear before age 3, though it may be diagnosed much later. Early diagnosis and treatment have been linked to better outcomes so are critical. Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) include Autism, Asperger’s disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). A recent prevalence study indicates the occurrence of ASDs to be slightly more than 1 in 300 with a 4 (male) to 1 (female) ratio. It is found across all socioeconomic levels, ethnic and cultural categories. Individuals with an ASD are generally physically healthy; however, a higher occurrence of seizures and other conditions may occur. People diagnosed with an ASD may have delayed development in some areas while performing at typical or advanced levels in others.

There are THREE PRIMARY AREAS of concern.

Impairment in Social Skills and Interaction which may include difficulty initiating and maintaining conversation, eye contact, toy/peer play, forming relationships with others, and understanding social rules
Communication and Speech Difficulties in verbal and nonverbal areas, which may involve using words or phrases out of context, understanding and using pragmatic (social) language, difficulty requesting, labeling and/or answering questions
Repetitive Patterns of Behavior, Interests, and Activities which may include repetitive motor or vocal behaviors such as repeating sounds or words, handflapping, spinning, extreme or circumscribed interests, and insistence on sameness

Note that a qualified health professional (e.g., psychologist, medical doctor) is required to evaluate and diagnose ASDs so care should be taken to seek an appropriate practitioner.