Autism...

Download A Guide to Autism - 1.13MB

You may hear several different names used to describe autism. These could include:

• Classic autism
• Kanner Syndrome
• High-functioning autism
• Able autism
• Atypical autism
• Asperger Syndrome
• Semantic Pragmatic Disorder (SPD)
• Autistic tendencies
• Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD)

Autistic Spectrum Disorder (a.s.d.) is an umbrella term often used to describe these conditions because it groups together all the different variations of this disorder. The idea of a spectrum is useful because it shows that people with a diagnosis of autism can range from having average or above average intelligence to having severe learning disabilities.

Some facts about autism:

• It is a ‘hidden disability’ because people with autism are usually no different in appearance from anyone else
• It is now believed to affect as many as 1 in 110 people
• It is at least 4 times more common in males than females
• It is a lifelong disability, but getting the right help and support from people who understand can really make a difference
• Nobody knows for certain what causes autism, but research points to a genetic link
• People with autism can be very sensitive to sounds, tastes, smells, touch or the sensations caused by what they see

The Triad of Impairments...

Autism affects the way a person relates to other people and this can cause confusion with social interaction. Because all people are different, the way autism affects them is also different. However, they all have difficulties in 3 main areas, often known as ‘The Triad of Impairments’.

Communication – Talking and Understanding

Language difficulties range from no speech at all to fluent speech, often repetitive and mainly talking about their own areas of interest, rather than true conversation.
There is always difficulty in understanding spoken language, as well as the other clues to meaning in what we say e.g. body language, gesture, tone of voice, facial expression.

Social Interaction – Getting on with other people

Difficulties range from indifference and aloofness to wanting desperately to make friends but not understanding social rules and other people’s behaviour and feelings well enough to do so successfully. Some people with autism have real difficulties with social situations.

Imagination – Thinking and Behaviour

There may be deficits in imaginative and conceptual skills, and difficulties in making sense of the world. These lead to a rigid way of thinking and doing things, repetitive activity and narrow interests. Changes of routine cause anxiety and distress.

Language

• Keep your own language simple
• Avoid ‘flowery’ phrases and abstract ideas
• Keep sentences short and to the point
• Speak slowly and clearly
• Use the person’s name to get their attention first
• Give time for the person with autism to process what you say and to respond

Visual Support

• Give visual clues, whenever possible, to aid understanding e.g. photos, picture symbols, objects of reference
• Mime and gesture may help get your meaning across

Structure

• Provide a clear structure to the day so s/he knows what to expect and when
• Keep to predictable routines
• Explain any changes in advance, if possible, to minimise anxiety

For further information please contact:

Information Team autism.west midlands 18 Highfield Road Edgbaston Birmingham B15 3DU Tel: (0121) 450 7575 Fax: (0121) 450 7581 Email: info@autismwestmidlands.org.uk