Autism Diagnosis

A diagnosis brings a variety of questions about how to proceed

A generation ago, many people with autism were placed in institutions; professionals were less educated about autism than they are today and specific services and supports were largely non-existent. Today the picture is much clearer. With appropriate services and supports, training, and information, children on the autism spectrum will grow, learn and flourish, even if at a different developmental rate than others.

There are no medical tests for diagnosing autism. An accurate diagnosis must be based on observation of the individual's communication, behavior and developmental levels. However, because many of the behaviors associated with autism are shared by other disorders, various medical tests may be ordered to rule out or identify other possible causes of the symptoms being exhibited.

See the diagram to have better understanding of the symptoms:

At first look, many people with autism may appear to have mental retardation, a behavior disorder, problems with hearing, or even odd and eccentric behavior. To complicate matters further, these conditions can co-occur with autism. However, it is important to distinguish autism from other conditions, since an accurate diagnosis and early identification can provide the basis for building an appropriate and effective educational and treatment program.

A brief observation in a single setting cannot present a true condition of an individual's abilities and behaviors. Parental (and other caregivers' and/or teachers’) input and developmental history are important components of making an accurate diagnosis.

• Why Early Identification is Critical
• Screening and Screening Instruments
• Who Makes a Diagnosis?/Diagnostic Tools
• Working with Professionals
• Getting Past the Diagnosis

For more information visit www.aap.org