Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder

Diagnosing autism needs a clinical assessment. It requires multiple steps and expert observation.

In general, certain patterns of behavior are looked for.

• These include repetitive behaviors like rocking, hand flapping, or running back and forth.
• The child may have specific routines or rituals, from excessive hand washing to constant counting, tapping, or repeating certain words.
• Also of interest is whether the child has ongoing problems in interacting with others and in scenarios of social communication. Hyperactivity may be a problem.

When your child’s assessment interview takes place, the therapist will evaluate the child’s level of function and behaviors of concern. They’ll work with the parents to review medical and family history, as well as the child’s developmental history.

Part of the assessment will be a one-on-one encounter between the therapist and child, so that social skills and neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses can be evaluated. This encounter takes the form of asking questions and solving puzzles as a way of testing memory, motor function, intelligence, and language skills.

On the Spectrum

Autism is called a spectrum disorder because there is a wide variation in the types and severity of symptoms. Autism begins in early childhood and lasts throughout a person’s life. It may take the form of having trouble making eye contact, having a “flat” intonation when speaking, or even being unable to understand other people’s actions. There may be sensitivity to light, noise, and temperature as well as sleep and digestion problems.

There can even be mood factors, like easily being annoyed or getting angry.

In all cases, early intervention and early application of techniques like ABA Therapy will aid your child in learning skills and coping mechanisms to deal with their limitations while making impressive strides toward their goals.

Want to learn more and get your child they help they need?  Contact us today or Call ABA Abilities to get started. 412-319-7371.