Nowadays autism is defined within the ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders), due to the heterogeneity and diversity they present. It can be defined as a neurobiological disorder with a strong genetic component.
People with ASD show difficulties in socio-communicative aspects and restricted interests, as well as rigid and stereotyped behaviors, which usually manifest themselves during the first 3 years of life. In less affected cases, difficulties often go unnoticed until social demands become more evident.
Why does autism occur?
The causes of Autism are not entirely clear, what we know with accuracy is that it is a disorder of neurobiological origin with a strong genetic load, which occurs more frequently in males than in females, 3 out of 4 diagnoses occur in males and 1 in females.
The symptoms of ASD vary in each patient
In ASD there are no concrete or specific symptoms, but patients usually show difficulties in socio-communicative areas and restricted interests and stereotyped behaviors. Difficulties in these areas is what has been called “Wing’s triad”.
Detecting ASD in patients without clear symptoms
The diagnosis is clinical and is made by means of an exhaustive clinical interview, the passing of specific tests for the diagnosis of Autism (ADI-R and ADOS-2), direct observation and scales to assess the intellectual capacity and language level of the patient.
Early treatment is crucial in autism.
There are a multitude of specific treatments to treat ASD. Treatment must be specific and individualized, depending on the case and the severity of the disorder, as well as the person’s stage of development.
The basis of these treatments are psychoeducational interventions that should be oriented to work on social, communicative and restricted interest difficulties and stereotyped behaviors.
In general terms, it should be noted that intervention at an early age by a specialist psychologist is essential for a good prognosis, due to the great neuronal plasticity present during the first years of life.