What is the difference between autism and autism spectrum disorders? What are their associated symptoms? Effective diagnosis and treatment methods are topics of interest to many people, given the increasing number of children diagnosed with this condition. In this article, we will explore the difference between autism and autism spectrum disorders, their symptoms, and the role of both mothers and fathers in supporting children with autism.
What is autism
Autism is a condition that affects brain growth and development. It typically begins in childhood and remains with the patient throughout their life. It impacts social skills, self-regulation, communication, and relationships.
What is autism spectrum disorders
The autism spectrum refers to a group of neurodevelopmental disorders that vary in their symptoms and severity and include conditions ranging from classic autism to other disorders such as Asperger's syndrome and autism.
Symptoms of autism and autism spectrum disorders
Symptoms of autism in children appear in behaviors related to social communication, such as:
- Failure to participate in social activities.
- Arranging toys and objects in a certain way and refusing to change them.
- Repetitive movements, such as hand flapping.
- Poor eye contact.
- Difficulty expressing emotions.
- Delayed or lost language and speech.
- Speaking in an abnormal tone.
- Sleep problems.
- Digestive problems.
- Excessive focus on certain parts of objects.
- Unusual reactions to appearances or sounds.
Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder manifest in the form of problems with social communication:
- Legacy delays, such as difficulties with nonverbal communication, such as delayed speech or repeating words.
- Strict adherence to routines and refusal to accept even minor changes.
- Excessive interest in certain objects.
- Lack of direct eye contact.
- Inability to share toys or communicate with others.
What is the difference between autism and autism spectrum disorder
Both autism and autism spectrum disorder share some symptoms, such as difficulties with communication and social interaction, but the spectrum encompasses a wider range of severity.
Autism is considered part of the autism spectrum, but it represents the most severe cases. However, autism spectrum disorders can also include individuals with higher linguistic and social abilities, such as Asperger's syndrome.
Causes of Autism and the Autism Spectrum
There is a wealth of research indicating that genetic factors play a significant role in the development of autism and the autism spectrum, as disorders tend to appear in families with a history of autism.
Environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins during pregnancy or vaginal infections, may also contribute to an increased risk of autism.
Methods for Diagnosing Autism and the Autism Spectrum
Autism and the autism spectrum are diagnosed through comprehensive assessments based on:
- Direct observation.
- Psychometric tests.
- Interviews with the parents of the child with autism.
- Early diagnosis and early intervention, which includes speech and behavioral therapy aimed at improving social skills.
How can an autistic child be soothed
It is important to provide a calm and safe environment to calm an autistic child, using sensory techniques such as soft play and encouraging practices such as deep breathing or avoiding unpleasant stimuli.
It is recommended to deal with an autistic child with patience and provide a specific routine that helps them feel safe and stable, communicate calmly, and understand the child's needs.
Tips for Dealing with Autistic Children
- Clear and direct communication, using simple and clear language when speaking with them.
- Understand and respect, as autistic children see the world differently, and therefore respect their differences.
- Avoid noise, as they are sensitive to loud noises or bright lights.
- Avoid punishment and instead try to gently guide the child toward alternative behaviors.
- Encourage interaction with others and encourage community acceptance.
What is the best treatment for autism
There is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, but early and comprehensive interventions can support a child's development and behavior. These interventions include:
- Behavioral and communication therapy through an applied behavior analysis program, which aims to develop skills.
- Speech therapy helps improve verbal and nonverbal communication skills.
- Occupational therapy focuses on developing daily and motor skills.
- Social skills training to interact appropriately with others.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy helps the child understand their thoughts and feelings.
- Family therapy helps educate family members on how to deal with an autistic child.
Medications for Autism Treatment
There is no medication to treat autism itself, but the treating physician may prescribe some medications to alleviate the symptoms associated with autism. These medications include:
- Antipsychotic medications, which reduce aggressive or emotional behaviors.
- Anxiety and depression medications, which reduce anxiety and panic attacks.
Important Steps in Autism Treatment
Early intervention and initiation of treatment in early childhood are important because they help the child learn important skills and develop significantly. An individualized treatment plan should be developed for each person to meet their individual needs.
Treatment must rely on a multidisciplinary team of doctors, therapists, and educators to provide comprehensive support for the child, understand their needs, and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Summary of the Difference Between Autism and Autism Spectrum
There is no difference between the two terms. They both refer to the same neurological disorder. However, the term "autism spectrum" describes the variety of symptoms and varying degrees of severity among individuals. It includes conditions such as Asperger's syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder.
Autism, on the other hand, is a condition that affects brain growth and development and typically begins in childhood and persists throughout life. Autism is considered part of the autism spectrum.