Understanding Autism

Despite the fact that until recently there has been very little research towards understanding autism, there have been many advances. Autism is a mental disorder that is characterized by difficulty communicating and forming relationships, and it can be present in early childhood.

• Developmental regression. Since autism can be detected at an early age, it is usually noticed when a young child presents difficulty in communication and other language related skills.2 Children who have autism have a hard time developing relationships, and engaging in spontaneous pretend play, with their peers.1
• Savant-like skills. Some children with autism are incredibly intelligent and have amazing skills. A particular autistic person comes to mind when I think of a savant. This person can remember names and birthdates for a very long period of time. Upon meeting her one time, she was able to remember my name and my birthday for years to follow; and I never heard her forget anyone’s name nor their birthday regardless of how long it had been since she saw them last. Her talent is just one of many but it has been very inspiring to me and has helped grow my passion for working with people who have disabilities
• Communication. Despite being “disabled or mentally handicapped”, people with autism who are nonverbal can learn to communicate later on in childhood. It is important to understand that people who have autism may not function well in large crowds, so be respectful of that. They also have a hard time processing their surroundings and expressing emotions, usually with confusion and anger. When communicating with someone who has an autism spectrum disorder, ask detailed questions and try to avoid sudden, drastic changes,hey may not look you in the eye but they are listening and processing the information around them, be understanding of that.

In conclusion, there is a lot we have yet to learn about autism. But understanding how to work with autistic people will benefit them as well as the ones who are around them. I know I am inspired personally but have learned that there will be days when they do not want to be as friendly as they were the last time. Here is a link to a video that may help understand what some people go through on a daily basis: sensory overload video.  Not everyone with autism reacts the same, take the time to listen and learn about people.

**I am not naming anyone for their privacy, thank you for understanding.

References:

1  Heerey, E. A., Capps, L. M., Keltner, D., & Kring, A. M. (2004, July 27). Understanding Teasing: Lessons From Children With Autism. Retrieved May 23, 2016, from http://link.springer.com.zeus.tarleton.edu:82/article/10.1007/s10802-005-0934-z

2Rutter, M. L. (2011, February 12). Progress in Understanding Autism: 2007–2010. Retrieved May 23, 2016, from http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10803-011-1184-2