What Are Autistic Spectrum Disorders Symptoms?

autism spectrum

Disorders of the autistic spectrum were not given a label until the middle of the 20th century. Dr. Leo Kanner studied a group of children in 1943 who exhibited marked behavioral and communication issues and found them to be afflicted with what we today know as autism. There are five different disorders of development within the autism spectrum. All of the disorders vary in the degree that the individual is affected. But all have issues with communication skills, socialization and at times, repetitive behavior.

The parents of a child are normally the first to notice the signs of an autistic spectrum disorder. These disorders can actually rear their heads before the child is even three years of age. Children who have autism spectrum disorders do not act like other children. They may be withdrawn socially and may stare off into space and not respond when their name is called. However, there are instances of the disorder not showing up until later, such as when a child, who once acted as a normal toddler, suddenly begins to show signs.

Disorders may range from the milder form in the autism spectrum, normally referred to as Asperger syndrome, to a more severe form known as an autistic disorder. There is also high functioning autism, which shows symptoms very close to Asperger syndrome. If a child seems to have symptoms of autism, either the mild or the more sever form, yet does not fall under a certain criteria for one of these disorders, then they are normally diagnosed with a pervasive developmental disorder.

Autistic spectrum disorders are not always noticed right away because children all show different developmental changes at different times in their lives. The key is in knowing when it is simply the child's development or if there could be a problem. If the delays in development continue, then it is always best to consult with a physician. They can tell you if the child should be tested for autism spectrum disorders, as well as to provide you with information about what you can do and what to expect, if indeed the child does have one of the disorders related to autism.