Autism is a disorder that causes challenges for individuals in terms of social interaction, behavior and cognitive functioning. Often, there are no physical symptoms for this type of condition; however, people with autism generally interact and learn differently from most people. In fact, according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), autism is a "developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. There is often nothing about how people with ASD look that sets them apart from other people, but people with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities of people with ASD can range from gifted to severely challenged. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others need less.”
Autism can be present regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or race. There is no specific known cause for autism, although studies suggest it may be related to a flaw or mishap in the genetic history of the individual. The CDC estimates that around 1 in 59 children in the United States alone are diagnosed with autism, including a 1-in-37 likelihood for males and a 1-in-151 likelihood for females. Additionally, around one third of these individuals are nonverbal, have an intellectual disability or even experience seizures.
Autism is, indeed, a spectrum disorder. There is a wide variety of challenges that individuals on the spectrum may face. Here are a couple:
How can we help?
The number one way we can help those on the autism spectrum is to recognize that they are people, entitled to the same rights and respect that we are. Therefore, please refrain from using terms such as "autistic" when referring to someone you know with autism. They are not defined by their condition!
Understand that they may be uncomfortable doing certain things or being in certain places, and help them out if you see they need it. Stand up for them. Most importantly, treat them the way you would treat anyone else: with respect and love.
For more information and resources about autism, you can visit: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.html.
Bibliography
Autism Society. “Home.” Autism Society, 26 July 2018, www.autism-society.org/
“Home | Autism Speaks.” Toys'R'Us | Autism Speaks, 25 July 2012, www.autismspeaks.org/
“Home.” Autism Science Foundation, autismsciencefoundation.org/
Understand that they may be uncomfortable doing certain things or being in certain places, and help them out if you see they need it. Stand up for them. Most importantly, treat them the way you would treat anyone else: with respect and love.
For more information and resources about autism, you can visit: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.html.
Bibliography
Autism Society. “Home.” Autism Society, 26 July 2018, www.autism-society.org/
“Home | Autism Speaks.” Toys'R'Us | Autism Speaks, 25 July 2012, www.autismspeaks.org/
“Home.” Autism Science Foundation, autismsciencefoundation.org/