Does your little one not get along with other children? Do you feel like he is alone in his own world? Do you sometimes find it difficult to understand his behavior? It is normal for you as a parent to feel a little worried and have a lot of questions because of things like this. Many parents worry about things like this. So, today we are talking about a condition called autism, which can show these symptoms. Don't worry, we will talk about everything simply and clearly.
First, let's understand, what is autism?
This is the most important thing. Before we talk about autism, there are a few things we all need to understand.
- Autism is not a disease: This is very important. Usually we try to cure, "make better" a "disease". But autism is not a disease that needs to be cured. It is a change in the way the child's brain works. So the goal of doctors here is not to "cure" the child, but to help the child manage the challenges they face, while helping them to maximize their own strengths and talents .
- Children with autism are 'Neurodivergent': Don't be afraid of this English word. Simply put, it means that their brains work differently than expected. This means that your child may be much better at some things than other children, and he may need more help with other things.
- Autism is a Spectrum: Think of it like a rainbow. Just as there are different colors on a rainbow, children and adults with autism are very different from each other. Their personalities, talents, and challenges are different. So there is no "one size fits all" solution. Each child needs support that is unique to them, tailored to their needs.
- Misconceptions about autism: For decades, many misconceptions about autism have been prevalent in society. These misconceptions have caused great harm to people with autism. We cannot erase that past, but we have learned from it. The goal of today's treatments is not to force autistic children into a "framework" of society, but to help them develop the skills they need.
Although doctors use words like "symptoms" and "diagnosis," we must remember that autism is more than a diagnosis; it is a part of a person's identity.
What are the signs of autism in a child?
The symptoms of autism can be divided into two main categories:
1. Difficulties in social communication and interaction: This means difficulty in building relationships and conversing with others.
2. Restricted and repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities: This means doing the same things over and over again, or having a strong preference for the same things.
The way these symptoms manifest may change with the child's age. Let's look at this in an easy-to-understand way.
| Age group | Characteristics that can be seen in social communication |
|---|---|
| Toddlers |
|
| Older Children | |
| Young children (Adolescents) |
| Age group | Observable behavioral traits |
|---|---|
| Toddlers |
|
| Older and younger children |
Important: Some of the things listed here are things that any child will do at some point. But in the case of autism, these behaviors are not something that will "grow out over time." And they can cause challenges for the child in school or when interacting with peers.
Special strengths and talents of children with autism
As well as talking about challenges, children and people with autism have some very unique strengths. You could even think of these as their "superpowers."
- Honesty and directness: They tend to express their thoughts directly and honestly.
- Standing up against wrong: They have the strength to speak up for what is right, even if it goes against popular opinion.
- Moral strength: They are motivated to act according to their strong sense of right and wrong, even when no one is watching.
- Connections with different age groups: You can easily connect with anyone, regardless of age.
- Deep Focus: There is an amazing ability to focus on a topic for a long time and gain expert knowledge on that subject.
- Strong logical thinking: You may be better at solving problems by thinking visually and logically, rather than verbally.
What causes autism?
No single cause has been found. It is currently believed that autism is caused by a combination of genetics and environmental factors, such as exposure to environmental factors during pregnancy and childbirth. These factors work together to affect the development of a child's brain.
Some factors that are thought to increase the likelihood of autism include:
- Mother's age over 35 years.
- Getting pregnant again within 12 months of having one child.
- Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy.
- Bleeding during pregnancy.
- Use of certain medications, such as valproate, during pregnancy.
- Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IGR).
- Reduced oxygen supply to the fetus during pregnancy or labor.
- Premature birth (premature birth).
Is autism hereditary?
Yes, it can be. But there's a slight difference between "genetic" and "inherited."
Autism is "genetic" in the sense that changes in certain genes affect how a child's brain functions. Sometimes these genetic changes can develop in the child themselves. In that case, it is not something that is inherited.
However, genetic changes can also be passed down from parents to children. Experts believe that autism can be hereditary, as it is seen in siblings.
How do doctors diagnose autism?
The process of diagnosing autism involves several steps. It usually begins with a general medical examination of the child. Pediatricians recommend screening for autism when the child is 18 and 24 months old. The doctor will ask you a few questions about your child's behavior and communication.
If the doctor suspects that your child has autism, he or she will refer you to another doctor who specializes in this area. That specialist will talk to you, spend time with your child, and observe your child.
They use the criteria from the DSM-5-TR medical guide for diagnosis. Accordingly, to determine that a child has autism, there must be difficulties in the following areas:
A. There must be difficulties in all three social areas:
1. Socio-emotional reciprocity: This refers to the difficulty of exchanging ideas in both directions, such as in a conversation.
2. Nonverbal communication: Difficulty using and understanding things like eye contact and body language.
3. Building and maintaining relationships: Difficulty getting along with others and behaving appropriately in different situations.
and
B. At least two of the four areas of repetitive behavior must be present:
1. Repetitive movements, use of objects, or speech: repeating or saying the same thing over and over again.
2. Sticking rigidly to the same routine or pattern: strongly resisting change.
3. Very intense or unusual interests: Excessive interest in something or a topic.
4. Hyper- or hypo-responsiveness to sensory stimuli: More or less responsive than normal to things like sound, light, touch, etc.
Is there a special test for autism?
There is no such thing as a blood test or urine test. Autism is diagnosed by a trained specialist observing the child and obtaining information from the parents. Standardized assessment methods such as the ``Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS)`` can be used for this. Although genetic testing can be done, it does not diagnose autism. It can only identify genetic factors that may be causing changes in the child's brain.
Providing treatment and support
There are a variety of therapies to support children with autism. These work to build on the child's strengths while helping them manage the challenges they face. Some therapies also teach parents and family members how to support their child.
Remember, the earlier this support starts, especially before the age of 3 , the more beneficial it will be for the child's future.
Co-occurring conditions that may occur with autism may also require treatment. For example:
- Attention problems (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder - ADHD)
- Anxiety disorders
- Sleep disorders
- Epilepsy
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
For these situations, doctors may recommend treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), medication if necessary, and an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for your child's educational needs. Talk to your doctor about all of this openly.
Being a parent is like being a student. You are constantly learning, growing with your child. If your child has autism, your learning may be a little different than you expected. But the basic idea is the same - your child leads you, and you follow. Remember, you are not on this journey alone. Your child's doctors and treatment team are with your family through every challenge and every joy.
Take-Home Message
- Autism is not a disease, it's a change in brain function. So instead of looking for a "cure," focus on supporting your child and building their strengths.
- Every autistic child is different, so don't compare them to other children, but understand your child's unique needs.
- Diagnosing the disease as soon as possible and providing the necessary support and treatment is very important for the child's future.
- Recognize, appreciate, and encourage your child's unique talents and strengths, as well as the challenges they face.
- You are not alone. If you have any doubts, questions, or concerns, talk openly with your pediatrician (doctor).
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