Autism can be a complex condition. It is often difficult for people who have autism or their caregivers to explain what autism is. Yet it is important to have a definition at the ready so that others can be aware of the needs of people with autism with whom they interact. Here are some key points provided by an organization who provides ABA therapy to children with autism:
Autism is a developmental disorder that affects a person's neurological system. In general, it causes differences in the way people perceive the world and the way in which they communicate. Because communication and other social skills are important to success in life, people with autism have quite a few challenges. Yet in many cases, people with autism can overcome those challenges and realize the gifts of seeing the world in a different way than most.
Autism is also a spectrum disorder in which symptoms vary widely. For example, one person may be extremely sensitive to sensory stimuli, such as touch and light. That same person, however, may have developed excellent social skills. Another person with autism may have a tough time with social interactions, yet have few sensory issues. The wide range of differences on the autistic spectrum makes it difficult to pin down one set of symptoms in a definition.
People with autism often have difficulty communicating with others. Some of the things they struggle with are the following:
-A monotone voice or one that varies in rhythm and pitches at odd intervals
-Repeating words, phrases, or sentences, called echolalia
-Struggles with sharing feelings or concepts
-Word processing disorders that cause them to become confused by complex directions, as well as difficulties responding quickly to directions or questions
-A literal understanding of sentence and stories that causes them an inability to understand figures of speech, irony and sarcasm
People with autism often experience the world in a unique way. They may seem to ignore you or have difficulty making eye contact when you speak to them. When you talk with someone who has autism, remember these facts.
-People with autism sometimes appear uninterested in the people around them. That causes great difficulties making connections with others.
-Sometimes people affected by autism need to fidget while they listen. Fidgeting allows them to better process information. They may also not be able to make eye contact because eye contact causes them to lose focus. Don't be alarmed when they look away or fiddle with their fingers as they listen. That is normal for them.
-They may not be able to process information rapidly, particularly in a noisy, distracting environment. They may even seem to be unable to hear someone who is speaking to them. Pausing during conversations or moving to a less-distracting environment can help facilitate communication.
-People with autism often face great challenges when they play games with other people or interact with them socially in meetings or parties. Games, parties, and meetings have social rules that are difficult for many people to follow or involve intense sensory stimulation, such as bright lights or loud music.
Individuals affected by autism usually need structure and routine. Because many people with autism become startled when something out of the ordinary occurs, they usually prefer a schedule that is highly structured and varies little from day to day. Here are some behaviors that people with autism often exhibit:
-They may follow a strict schedule.
-Unexpected changes, such as a change in classrooms or a change of teachers, may cause distress for people with autism.
-They may find that a comfort object helps them conquer stress.
-They may feel the need to place their belongings in order in a structured way. Children with autism often line up their toys, organizing them by size or color.
To be an advocate for people with autism, you need to be well-informed with enough facts to educate people who may be ignorant about the condition. You may find that having a concise, organized set of facts will help you to better explain the complex world of people with autism to the general public.
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