Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the clinical term for the condition commonly known as autism. According to Christopher Banks, president and CEO of the Autism Society of America, autism is a complex developmental condition that impacts communication, social interaction, and behavior. Catherine Lord, a respected autism researcher and professor at UCLA, describes autism as a neurobiological condition that likely starts before birth, affecting social communication development.
The symptoms and severity of autism can vary greatly from person to person. While some individuals may display only a few related traits and may not realize they are autistic, others may require full-time care and be nonverbal. Mary Jane Andersen, a 19-year-old student from Idaho, shares her experience of being diagnosed with autism in eighth grade, despite her parents suspecting it earlier. This delay in diagnosis was influenced by misconceptions that autism predominantly affects boys and a lack of visible signs in her case.
Autism is typically diagnosed in childhood, with signs often recognized by age 2 to 4. However, some individuals may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood due to benign or less recognized traits, oversight during childhood, or limited access to evaluations. Diagnosis in teens or adults involves detailed developmental history, behavioral assessments, and self-reported experiences.
Support for individuals with autism should be tailored to their specific challenges. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, as support needs and levels can vary widely among those with autism. Andersen emphasizes the importance of managing specific challenges rather than treating autism as a whole condition. For example, she struggles with controlling her tone and interpreting tones in others.
In conclusion, understanding the diverse nature of autism, recognizing the individualized support required, and dispelling misconceptions are essential steps towards creating a supportive environment for individuals with autism.
“I struggle to understand voice inflection and can come across as angry to others, even when I’m not upset,” she explains. To overcome this, she learned cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and benefited from social integration therapy to better grasp voice inflection and body language in herself and others. “I can now pick up on social cues more easily,” she shares. Some parents of autistic individuals advocate for finding a “cure,” with figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. looking to pinpoint the cause of increasing autism rates by September 2025. The exact cause has evaded the scientific community for years, and there is no consensus on the rise in autism cases, though it’s often attributed to heightened awareness and diagnosis efforts. Providing structured environments and clear schedules can support autistic children, notes Lord, ensuring they know what to expect next. Sensory tools like headphones and fidget toys can also benefit individuals with autism, according to Cook. “With the right support,” Pelphrey emphasizes, “those with autism can lead amazing, fulfilling lives.” This article was first published on USA TODAY: Understanding Autism.
