Autism is a disorder that is characterized by difficulty in communication, social interaction, and behavioral patterns. It is estimated that 1 in every 54 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While the exact cause of autism is unknown, there are certain characteristics that can help to identify people with autism. This article will discuss what makes something autistic, discussing the definition of autism and the characteristics associated with it.
Definition of Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological and developmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. It is characterized by difficulty in social interaction, impaired communication, and repetitive behaviors. ASD can present itself in different forms and range from severe to mild.
ASD is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that affect brain development. While there is no single cause of autism, researchers believe it is likely the result of a number of different genes and environmental factors interacting in unique ways.
Characteristics of Autism
People with autism may have difficulty with social interactions, communication, and may display unusual behavior. Common characteristics of autism include difficulty making eye contact, difficulty understanding social cues, difficulty with conversational skills, repetitive behaviors, and difficulty with change.
People with autism may also have difficulty interpreting facial expressions and body language. They may also have difficulty understanding abstract concepts, such as humor, irony, and sarcasm. Additionally, people with autism may be overly sensitive to certain types of sensory input, such as sounds, tastes, and smells.
People with autism typically display a wide range of impairments in communication, behavior, socialization, and interests. People with autism may also experience difficulty with motor skills, such as writing and drawing. Additionally, people with autism may display obsessive interests, become easily overwhelmed, or become easily agitated.
In conclusion, autism is a complex neurological and developmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. While the exact cause of autism is unknown, there are certain characteristics that can help to identify people with autism. These include difficulty making eye contact, difficulty understanding social cues, repetitive behaviors, difficulty with change, and difficulty understanding abstract concepts. It is important to remember that autism presents itself in different forms and ranges from severe to mild.