Autism is one of the pervasive developmental disorders that develop in childhood. Also defined by Kanner as "Autistic Disorder of Emotional Attachment," this diagnosis is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Emotional processes are the building blocks of both social interaction and personal communication. The ability to identify emotions and states is indicative of an individual's physical and cognitive condition. Emotional problems in individual and social interaction are the core findings of autism.
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Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
In childhood, symptoms such as inability to make eye contact, gaze disorders, and attention deficit appear as signs of the disorder. Especially in the first years of life, the child is more drawn to inanimate objects. In the early developmental stages, the child has problems with emotional development and communication.
According to research, the prevalence of this developmental disorder, which is more common in boys, is 0.2%. Studies show that boys are at risk for this diagnosis.
However, girls are also at risk of being affected by this disorder, including those with brain trauma. Autism classification is based on the following categories:
- Behavioral Abnormalities
- Social Relations
- Communication
- Limited Interests
- Physical Findings
Early Signs of Autism in Children
Family studies, genetic factors, and relational factors are involved in the etiology of the disease. However, brain imaging studies in children are prominent. Recent studies, in particular, have determined that the underlying cause of the disease is related to neurological development.
From the moment pregnancy is detected, the baby's development is monitored both during pregnancy and after birth. Developmental monitoring encompasses both the physical and cognitive development of the baby. Through this monitoring, the doctor diagnoses common developmental disorders.
For example, head circumference measurement is included in developmental monitoring. Indeed, autistic children have larger head circumferences. Brain imaging studies show that deformities in neurological development affect brain structure and function.
In addition to physical phenomena such as head circumference size, neurological deformities become more apparent as the child gets older.
Autism Classification and Key Characteristics
Typical signs and symptoms are not always present in autistic children. Indeed, the characteristics of a child vary depending on the classification of autism.
Behavioral abnormalities;
- Defects in the sensory stimulation area.
- Defects in the visual warning area.
- Stereotypical body movements
- Defects in the tactile stimulation area.
- Defects in the auditory stimulation area
Social relationships;
- Inability to form peer relationships
- Inability to share interests
- Playing alone
- Inability to make eye contact
- Inability to communicate
- Inability to maintain communication.
- Avoiding physical contact.
Communication;
- Language development delay
- Meaningless talk
- Speech difficulty
- Inability to understand gestures and facial expressions.
- Referring to yourself in the third person.
- Responding late or not at all.
- Inability to express emotions
Physical findings;
- Clumsiness while walking
- Swing your arms while walking.
- Walking on tiptoes
- Deficiencies in motor skills
- Excess number of hair donors
How Autism Is Diagnosed in Children
Individuals diagnosed with autism continue to experience developmental impairments throughout their lives. These impairments become more pronounced with age, naturally impacting their lives.
Therefore, parents should consult a doctor if they notice any developmental problems in their child. The doctor will evaluate the child and diagnose the condition based on necessadiagnosed
This initiates treatment for this condition, which directly affects the child's development and life. Early diagnosis is crucial for all autistic individuals.
For example, a child who has reached the age of 5 but still cannot speak has a poor prognosis. At this point, it is essential for parents to monitor their child's development correctly.
Autistic children cannot engage in social interaction, have incomplete language development and avoid physical contact. They experience disabilities that affect both individual and social life. After diagnosing the condition, the doctor classifies it and treats it accordingly.
Autism Treatment Options and Support Methods
Treatment for autistic individuals includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. Children who exhibit behaviors such as self-harm and harm to others often receive pharmacological treatment. Other treatment methods include:
- Educational approaches
- Behavioral therapies
- Psychotherapeutic approaches
It is divided into five categories: dietary treatment and other methods.
The goal of autism treatment is to restore or regain lost or failed abilities. Autistic individuals often struggle to adapt to their environment due to their diagnosis.
This can also lead to psychological problems. When planning treatment, doctors consider all these factors and employ holistic treatment methods. Through treatment, the child's developmental impairment is minimized, thus reducing their lifelong impact on the individual.
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not an official medical source. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
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