Autism

Autism is a syndrome first appearing in the very early years of life, usually before three years, which is characterized by extreme withdrawal, language disturbance, inability to form affective ties, frequent lack of responsiveness to other people, monotonously repetitive motor behaviors, inappropriate response to external stimuli, and an obsessive urge for the maintenance of sameness. The incidence of autism is less than 1% of the general population.

Many, but not all, autistic children may be severely impaired in inherent intellectual capacities (approximately 80% are functioning in the mentally retarded range). About 10-30% of autistic youngsters eventually develop seizures.

The diagnosis of autism is made by a physician or psychologist on the basis of developmental history and clinical manifestations. The diagnosis is generally made between the ages of two and four years.

 

(2MB file) Autistic Spectrum Disorders: Best Practice Guidelines for Screening, Diagnosis and Assessment provides recommendations, guidance and information about current “best practice” in the field. These Guidelines offer evidence-based recommendations and are not to be interpreted as policy or regulation.

 

(269 KB file) ACRC: Guide for Parents of Children With Autism This guide provides families with information about autism and highlights key points about service options.