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What is Autism?
Autism disrupts the development of
social and communication skills, isolating those it affects from the rest of
us. It occurs in varying degrees of severity, and touches on the lives of some
115,000 families in the UK. This complex condition, believed to be caused by
organic brain damage, affects four times as many boys as girls and is found
amongst all races, nationalities and social backgrounds.
Children and
adults with autism are unable to relate to others in a meaningful way. Their
ability to develop friendships is impaired, as is their capacity to understand
other people's feelings. In an effort to create order from situations they
can't understand, many develop strange obsessions, bizarre patterns of
behaviour and seemingly irrational fears. They need specialist help to cope
with the demands of everyday life. Without this, their world is like a jigsaw
when the pieces don't fit.
Some ways in which autism is displayed:
displays indifference
joins in only if adult insists and assists
does not play with other children
talks incessantly about only one topic
one-sided interaction
indicates need by using an adults hand
echolalic - copies words like parrot
bizarre behaviour
handles or spins objects
no eye contact
variety is not the spice of life
lack of creative, pretend play
but some can do some things very well, very quickly but not tasks involving social understanding
What causes Autism?
Many experts believe that the pattern of
behaviour from which autism is diagnosed may not result from a single cause.
There is strong evidence that autism can be caused by a variety of physical
factors, all of which affect brain development - it is not due to emotional
deprivation.
Is there a cure?
At present there is no cure.
Children with autism grow into adults with autism - many of whom will need
constant care and supervision throughout their lives. But there is hope.
People with autism can be helped to develop their social and communication
skills, become more independent and lead fuller, more productive lives.
The National Autistic Society offer specialist education, training and
care for both children and adults. They also offer advisory and information
services for parents and professionals, distribute leaflets and booklets,
organise conferences and short courses, and monitor and encourage research
studies.
All this information is from the National Autistic Society. For further information contact them directly:
The National Autistic Society . Web site: www.nas.org.uk