Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
“It is important to consult a trained professional for screening and diagnosis questions. A diagnosis offers information that can help to understand and provide the support essential for a person’s well-being.”Autism spectrum is a neurological and developmental disability (neurodevelopmental) that is evident in early childhood and is characterized by differences in how a person thinks, communicates, and interacts with the world. The age in which a person receives a diagnosis varies; however, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months.
Autism is a spectrum, meaning that individual expression of the traits looks different for every person. A color wheel represents and displays the spectrum of colors, shades, and tints that can emerge from core colors. Similarly, autism is represented by core criteria for a diagnosis. However, the core criteria emerge to display a spectrum of individual expression of those traits. Thus, there is a range of differences and include differences in the area of social communication and interaction. For example, some people on the spectrum may communicate using tablets with apps called Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC), others may communicate speaking words, and others may fall somewhere in between that range. Some people may avoid eye contact, while others can hold your gaze for short periods of time. Therefore, it is important to consult a trained professional for screening and diagnosis questions. A diagnosis offers information that can help to understand and provide the support essential for a person’s well-being. Currently, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 1 in 36 children have autism spectrum, and it is four times more common in boys than in girls. The recent increase in childhood diagnosis is the result of increased awareness and research. From the AARC website, you can schedule an AARC resource consultation, request AARC training information, submit a resource intake form, and/or complete the online form to connect with us! Latino/Hispanic families are encouraged to schedule a zoo consultation. If an interpreter is needed, the center requires at least 2 weeks’ notice to ensure there is one available. • In 2017, the CDC estimated that there were 12,000 adults with autism in the state of Alaska. • The CDC estimates that 1 in 66 children in Alaska have Autism. • In 2020, the CDC reported data collected from 11 states in the US including the ASD prevalence among Hispanic children (29.3). This information was brought to you by the Alaska Autism Resource Center (AARC). The AARC supports all Alaskans interested in learning more about autism. To schedule a free training, a free resource consultation, or access resources, please visit us online at https://www.alaskaarc.org/ |