What is an Autistic spectrum disorder?

Autistic Spectrum Disorder is a term used to describe a number of disorders of varying severity that include Autism and Asperger Syndrome. Autism is a complex lifelong developmental disability. It affects the way a person communicates and relates to people around them. Asperger Syndrome is a form of autism used to describe individuals usually at the higher functioning end of the spectrum. People with Asperger Syndrome may have difficulty with social relationships, organisation, motivation, problem solving and flexible thinking. They may also have special interests, and a preference for strict routine.

 

Most people with ASD have difficulties with three main areas which are known as the triad of impairments:

Social interaction

(social relationships and awareness)

Social communication

(verbal & non verbal communications)

Imagination/Rigidity of Thought.

(abstract & creative thinking, & interpersonal play)

 

Other characteristics that may be present in an individual with ASD:

 Inappropriate Laughing Incessant talking about a subject

Flapping hands or spinning objects Poor eye contact

Sensory difficulties Unusual dietary tastes/food intolerance

Poor spatial awareness Motor and co-ordination difficulties

Sleep Problems Poor understanding of body language

Speech and language difficulties Echolalia – copying words

Literal interpretation of words Anxiety if routine is changed

Difficulty making friends Lack of understanding about emotions

No sense of danger Difficulty with abstract subjects

These are a few of the features that may be present in a person with ASD. Some individuals may also have particular strengths; they are often very honest, they may have an excellent memory, they may have detailed knowledge about a specialised subject, and they may be gifted musically, artistically or in many other ways.

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