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Most infants
and young children are very social creatures who need and
want contact with others to thrive and grow. They smile, cuddle,
laugh, and respond eagerly to games like "peek-a-boo" or hide-and-seek.
Occasionally, however, a child does not interact in this expected
manner. Instead, the child seems to exist in his or her own
world, a place characterized by repetitive routines, odd and
peculiar behaviors, problems in communication, and a total
lack of social awareness or interest in others. These are
characteristics of a developmental disorder called autism.
Autism
is usually identified by the time a child is 30 months old
and always by three years of age. It is often discovered when
parents become concerned that their child may be deaf, is
not yet talking, resists cuddling, and avoids interaction
with others.
A preschool
age child with "classic" autism is generally withdrawn, aloof,
and fails to respond to other people. Many of these children
will not even make eye contact. They may also engage in odd
or ritualistic behaviors like rocking, hand waving, or an
obsessive need to maintain order.
Many children
with autism do not speak at all. Those who do may speak in
rhyme, have echolalia (repeating a person’s words like an
echo), refer to themselves as a "he" or "she," or use peculiar
language.
The severity
of autism varies widely, from mild to severe. Some children
are very bright and do well in school, although they have
problems with school adjustment. They may be able to live
independently when they grow up. Other children with autism
function at a much lower level. Mental retardation is commonly
associated with autism. Occasionally, a child with autism
may display an extraordinary talent in art, music, or another
specific area.
The cause
of autism remains unknown, although current theories indicate
a problem with the function or structure of the central nervous
system. What we do know, however, is that parents do not cause
autism.
Children
with autism need comprehensive evaluation and specialized
behavioral and educational programs. Some children with autism
may also benefit from treatment with medication. Child and
adolescent psychiatrists are trained to diagnose autism, and
to help families design and implement an appropriate treatment
plan. They can also help families cope with the stress which
may be associated with having a child with autism.
Although
there is no cure for autism, appropriate treatment can have
a positive impact on the child’s development and produce an
overall reduction in disruptive behaviors and symptoms.
Article
#11 Updated 4/99
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