Every 20 minutes someone is diagnosed with Autism as confirmed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) the numbers are escalating in Jamaica and the Caribbean. DEFINITION OF AUTISM Autism is defined by the Autism Society Of America (ASA) as: "Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. Autism is one of five disorders that falls under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), a category of neurological disorders characterized by “severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development." CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTISM Most signs or characteristics of Autism are evident in the areas of speech or communication (verbal and non-verbal). Many of the signs or symptoms of Autism begin presenting themselves between 2 and 6 years of age. The research indicates the following symptoms are the most commonly found characteristics of Autism: The child is unable to coo by 12 months. The child also does not point or gesture by 12 months. The child does not say single words by 16 months. The child does not say 2 or more words by 24 months. Has lost some of social skills or language abilities. Other Characteristics include: No fear of danger. Over or under sensitivity to pain. May avoid eye contact with you. May prefer to be by him/herself. Has difficulty expressing what they want or need - may then try to use gestures. May echo words or phrases. May have inappropriate attachments to objects. May spin his/herself or objects. Prolonged repetitive play. May insist on things/routines always being the same. May exhibit inappropriate laughing (laughing when not appropriate to the situation). May display tantrums for no apparent reason. May avoid cuddling. May exhibit self injurious behavior when upset i.e. biting selves or banging heads. An overall difficulty interacting with others.
