Autism Spectrum Disordern (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder is rapidly changing as new developments are being made. The release of the fifth Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has altered the way people see and diagnose autism.

Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD explains a range of developmental disorders “characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors” (Autism Speaks website). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every one in eighty-eight children will be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. ASD is a disorder that affects every population and group in the world; however, it is more common in certain ethnicities. For example, ASD is more likely to be diagnosed in European Americans than in African Americans and Latinos. There are a couple things that explain this disparity. Minorities in America that have low IQ scores are more likely to be diagnosed with a cognitive or intellectual disability rather than autism. In addition, European Americans have greater access to health care services than Latinos and African Americans do. As a result, European Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Also, autism is more prevalent in boys than in girls. More specifically, boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder than girls. This is partially due to fact that boys are more vulnerable to neurological dysfunction. Another reason is that doctors are more likely to diagnose boys with autism if they display behaviors that deviate from what is typical or expected. (EDP textbook chapter 9 page 237).

There are many signs and symptoms of ASD; however, most people will not have every sing...

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... severe level on the spectrum, and it requires the most support and aid. Level one is the least severe form of autism on the spectrum, but it still requires some support. Level two falls right in the middle. While it does require a considerable amount of support, it is not near as much required for level 3 (Autism Speaks website). Once the severity is determined, the diagnostic process is complete. Once that process is over, treatment options are discussed.

Although Autism Spectrum Disorder is a disorder that is lifelong and incurable, it is true “that the symptoms of autism can be managed and often markedly reduced by various treatments and interventions” (A brief guide to autism treatments page 12) There are currently hundreds of therapies and strategies that are used to help treat Autism Spectrum Disorder; however, some are more common and effective than others.