WHAT WE KNOW AND
WHAT WE ARE STILL LEARNING
By ERIN STAUDER
A utism spectrum disorder
(ASD) is one of the fastest-
growing developmental
disorders in the United
States with a growth rate of more
than 1,100 percent, according to the
Autism Society. But ASD is still greatly
misunderstood by the public.

What is ASD?
Autism is a complex developmental
disability and affects a person’s ability
to communicate and interact with
others. Autism, which typically appears
during the first three years of life, is
a “spectrum disorder” that affects
individuals to varying degrees. There is
no known single cause of autism.

30 September 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com
According to the Autism Society, a few
signs to look for are:
• delay in or lack of spoken language
• repetitive use of language and/or
motor mannerisms
• little or no eye contact
• lack of interest in peer relationships
• lack of spontaneous or make-believe
play • persistent fixation on parts of objects
MYTH NO. 1: Individuals with
autism are intellectually disabled and
lack communication skills.

While autism is not curable, it
is treatable. Early diagnosis and
intervention, including behavioral
treatments or medication, can
significantly improve social and
educational outcomes.

For children with autism who are
unable to verbally engage, there are
alternative forms of communication
available. A recent study supported by
the group Autism Speaks concluded
that the use of American Sign
Language for children with autism can
be an effective form of communication.

ASD affects people in different ways,
especially with communication. Some
children may be nonverbal or nearly
nonverbal; others may be extremely
verbal with rich vocabularies and high
reading skills.

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5 Myths of