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How are Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger Syndrome different
from one another?
Autism is a
developmental disability that affects a person's ability to communicate,
understand language, play, and interact with others. Autism is a behavioral syndrome, which means that its
definition is based on patterns of behaviors that a person exhibits. Autism is not an illness or a disease. It is
not contagious and, as far as we know, it is not acquired through contact
with the environment. Autism is
a neurological disability that is presumed to be present from birth and is
always apparent before the age of three. Although autism affects the functioning of the brain, the specific
cause of autism is unknown. In fact, it
is widely assumed that there are most likely multiple causes, each of which
may be manifested in different forms, or subtypes, of autism. Future research will help us understand
the etiologies of autism.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological
disorder that prevents people from understanding what they see, hear or
sense. ASD affects reasoning, social interaction and communication. It can
affect the functioning and development of the brain and is usually
evident before a child turns three years old. It is a spectrum disorder,
which means there is a wide variation in how it affects children. ASD
occurs in approximately 1 in 500 children and is four to five times more
common in boys than girls. The causes are still unknown. There is no medical
test for ASD. Assessment and diagnosis should involve an experienced
multi-disciplinary team. For now there is no cure for ASD. There are,
however, highly effective treatment and intervention methods available that
can help individuals and their families manage this disorder. Many children
with ASD can learn to communicate effectively, share in family life and
attend school.
Possible Indicators of Autism Spectrum Disorders Does not babble, point, or make
meaningful gestures by 1 year of age Does not speak one word by 16
months Does not combine two words by 2 years Does not respond to
name Loses language or social skills Some Other Indicators
Poor eye contact Doesn't seem to know how to play with toys
Excessively lines up toys or other objects Is attached to one particular
toy or object Doesn't smile At times seems to be hearing
impaired
Asperger Syndrome or (Asperger's Disorder) is a
neurobiological disorder named for a Viennese physician, Hans Asperger, who
in 1944 published a paper which described a pattern of behaviors in
several young boys who had normal intelligence and language development,
but who also exhibited autistic-like behaviors and marked deficiencies
in social and communication skills.
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