AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDERS

An autistic spectrum disorder is a lifelong disability that affects the way a person communicates and relates to people around them.

Autism occurs in a variety of forms, hence the term "Autistic Spectrum Disorder", which describes the whole range from "Classic Autism" to "Asperger's Syndrome". People with Classic Autism generally also have learning difficulties whereas people with Asperger's Syndrome have IQ scores in the normal range.

Key Characteristics

For autistic people the ability to develop friendships is impaired, as is the capacity to understand other people's feelings.

In an effort to create order from situations they can't understand, many develop strange obsessions, bizarre patterns of behaviour and seemingly irrational fears.

Some autistic people appear withdrawn and disinterested in the world around them, however, many people with Asperger's Syndrome want human contact and try hard to be sociable although their problems in understanding social situations, non-verbal signals and facial expressions can make this very difficult.

The Way Forward

Appropriate intervention and structured support can really make a difference to a person's life. With understanding, time and patience, skills can be maximised and the individual helped to achieve their full potential.

As autistic spectrum disorders encompass such a wide range of needs so they require a range of imaginative approaches for intervention. This may be anything from one-to-one support in special education to outreach services for adults living independently.

Support and Information

Families may need support and information on many aspects of this disability and ways in which to alleviate its impact on family life.

 Voluntary groups, both national and local, can provide a variety of different services to help support, not only families, but all carers and professionals.

Diagnosis

All medical conditions are classified according to an international system called ICD Codes.  These Codes are updated every few years.  The latest version  is ICD10. The codes for Pervasive Developmental Disorders which include Autism and Asperger's Syndrome can be found on the following hyperlink along with details of the diagnostic criteria.www.geocities.com/richardg_uk/icd10f84

If you are over 18 and are seeking a diagnosis, visit www.autismdirectory.org.uk for details of diagnostic centres. If you have any difficulty with obtaining a diagnosis please call our help-line (0118 9594 594) for assistance.

Research

The Autism Research Centre in Cambridge is a centre of excellence in the field of autism research.  They also have a good website on which their latest publications can be found.

NAS Research - The research pages of the NAS Website are well worth a visit.