What is Autism?

Most people today know someone with autism. People on the autism spectrum are in our classes, our neighborhoods and our families. Around us, about 1 in 200 people have autism and many more have some symptoms of autism. Understanding some of the different issues people with autism must face makes us more understanding and improves our interactions with them. By better understanding how people with autism function, we can make more informed choices in education and care.

When an adult encounters a child with autism their response is often, “That parent needs to better discipline their child.” Little might the newcomer to a particular situation know that due to developmental issues, the child would probably not understand the reason behind a punishment and this in turn would actually only increase the negative behavior.

A person with autism experiences the world in a different way.

They think and remember events differently.

They react and communicate differently.

By understanding the how and why of these differences, we can gain insight.

Autism is often referred to as a spectrum disorder. A spectrum is a continuum. This means that the severity of autism is on a spectrum from severely impacted to typical. All of us are on a spectrum and we mature at different rates. As such, we can all relate to some parts of the autism experience, even if we would not be labeled with autism.

Autism is not a disease, but a group of developmental differences. These differences interfere with the development of social, communication and play abilities.

The Autism Society of America defines autism as a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. It is believed that autistic functioning can be improved but not necessarily “cured.” Autism is the result of neurological differences that affect the normal intake, processing and reactions of the body and brain. Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.

From Professional Learning Board’s online continuing education course for teachers: Introduction to Autism