A neurodevelopmental disorder known as autism affects the mind and behavior beginning at an early age occurring in 1 of 100 children. Studies show that it affects more males than females and is commonly diagnosed between the ages of 6 and 11. (Jane Ball, 2012) The cause of autism is unknown, but no case is the same. It is said that genes and environment are the main factors that contribute to this disease.
The symptoms of autism may range from mild to severe and are usually recognized by 2 to 3 years of age with the screening beginning as early as 16 months old. (Raphael A. Bernier, 2014) “A delay in speech is often the first symptom that leads to diagnosis.” (Jane Ball, 2012) These children often have a problem with communication. Children who have autism often experience lack of interaction with other children, may stare into a …show more content…
(Jane Ball, 2012) Children with severe autism may throw temper tantrums or inflict injury upon self. Children with autism do not cope well under change and may do better with a certain routine. Parents will be given questionnaires to screen for autism at a child’s 18month wellness check-up and again at 24months. The doctor will start by monitoring the child’s behavior while at the visit. Further testing should be done if there are positive results at either screening or if the child is at high risk. The comprehensive diagnostic evaluation such as the modified checklist for autism in toddlers is often used to rule out autism. (Jane Ball, 2012) The evaluation components usually consist of an interview with the parents or caregiver, assessment and observation of the child. Treatments may include medication along with behavioral management to help the child function better. (How is autism diagnosed?, 2015) Speech and occupational therapy are usually initiated to help the child grow in their developmental milestones. Since each case
The symptoms of autism may range from mild to severe and are usually recognized by 2 to 3 years of age with the screening beginning as early as 16 months old. (Raphael A. Bernier, 2014) “A delay in speech is often the first symptom that leads to diagnosis.” (Jane Ball, 2012) These children often have a problem with communication. Children who have autism often experience lack of interaction with other children, may stare into a …show more content…
(Jane Ball, 2012) Children with severe autism may throw temper tantrums or inflict injury upon self. Children with autism do not cope well under change and may do better with a certain routine. Parents will be given questionnaires to screen for autism at a child’s 18month wellness check-up and again at 24months. The doctor will start by monitoring the child’s behavior while at the visit. Further testing should be done if there are positive results at either screening or if the child is at high risk. The comprehensive diagnostic evaluation such as the modified checklist for autism in toddlers is often used to rule out autism. (Jane Ball, 2012) The evaluation components usually consist of an interview with the parents or caregiver, assessment and observation of the child. Treatments may include medication along with behavioral management to help the child function better. (How is autism diagnosed?, 2015) Speech and occupational therapy are usually initiated to help the child grow in their developmental milestones. Since each case