Diagnosis of Autism
Parents are usually the first to notice unusual behaviors in their child. Their baby seemed "different" from birth. The first signs of autism may appear in children who had been developing normally. When an affectionate, babbling toddler suddenly becomes silent, withdrawn, violent, or self-abusive, something is wrong. Unfortunately, friends and relatives can delay the parents in seeking help. Statements such as "He'll grow out of it," or "Every child is different," can assure parents that there is nothing really wrong with their child.
Autism is a type of Pervasive Developmental Disorder. A diagnosis of autistic disorder is made when an individual displays 6 or more of 12 symptoms across three major areas: social interaction, communication, and behavior. When children display similar behaviors but do not meet the criteria for autistic disorder, they may receive a diagnosis of Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS (PDD not otherwise specified).
The following are the diagnostic criteria for Autistic Disorder listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM IV):
A total of six (or more) items from (1), (2), and (3), with at least two from (1), and one each from (2) and (3).
Delays or abnormal functioning in at least one of the following areas, with onset prior to age 3 years:
- Social interaction
- Language as used in social communication
- Symbolic or imaginative play
The disturbance is not better accounted for by Rett Syndrome or Childhood Disintegrative Disorder.
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