Autism Spectrum Disorder

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder. It is considered to be a spectrum disorder, meaning the symptoms can be expressed in varying degrees of severity. It affects every individual in a different way. The cause of ASD remains unknown. The current theory is that ASD is caused by a combination of “risk genes” and environmental factors in the early brain development period.

“If you have met one person with autism, you have met one person with autism” – Dr. Stephen Shore

People experiencing ASD may exhibit these characteristics:

• Difficulty with verbal and non-verbal communications
  • Some people with ASD are highly verbal, and others are non-verbal
  • Social communications can be difficult. There may be trouble understanding social cues and how to respond appropriately
  • Understanding body language and what it means can be a challenge
  • Typically will have a lack of eye contact when communicating
  • May have difficulty with facial expression

• Display a range of rigid or stereotyped, repetitive behaviours.
  • Hand flapping
  • Finger flipping
  • Rocking
  • Spinning
  • Unusual body posture
  • Unusual body movements

• Dependent on routines. Difficulty adapting to changes and waiting.

• Sensory behaviours
  • Intense focus on moving or spinning objects
  • Misunderstanding of real dangers
  • Hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity. Over or under reaction to sights, sounds, smells, taste, pain, or touch
  • Avoiding sensory stimuli by covering ears, eyes, or avoiding crowded areas