Emotional or Behavioral Disorders.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are complex developmental disorders of brain function. Each can affect a childs ability through signs of impaired social interaction, problems with verbal and nonverbal communication, and unusual or severely limited activities and interest. These symptoms typically appear during the first three years of life. There is no cure for ASDs, but with appropriate early intervention, a child may improve social development and reduce undesirable behaviors. ASDs affect an estimated two to six per 1,000 children and strike males about four times as often as females. They do not discriminate against racial, ethnic, or social backgrounds. ASDs are spectrum disorders that affect individuals differently and to varying degrees. This behavior may persist over time and prove very difficult to change, posing a tremendous challenge to those who must live with, treat, and teach these individuals. The mildest forms of autism resemble a personality disorder associated with a perceived learning disability.

There is no medical test for diagnosing autism. A diagnosis is based on observed behavior and educational and psychological testing. As the symptoms of autism vary, so do the routes to obtaining a diagnosis. Some children are identified as having developmental delays before obtaining a diagnosis of autism and may already receive some services or therapy. 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. At first glance, some persons with autism may appear to have intellectual disabilities, 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. Autism is treatable. Primary treatments are educational (teaching those with autism ways to do things that may not come as easily for them) and compensatory (helping individuals use their strengths to make up for areas that are more difficult), as well as behavioral (assisting individuals to minimize behaviors that interfere with daily living, such as tantrums or self-injury). Children do not "outgrow" autism, but studies show that early diagnosis and intervention lead to significantly improved outcomes. Treatment is a very intensive, comprehensive undertaking that involves the child's entire family and a team of professionals. Some programs may take place in the child's home with professionals and trained therapists and may include Parent Training for the child under supervision of a professional. What works for one child for a period of time may stop working. Some therapies are supported by research showing their efficacy, while others are not. The skill, experience and style of the therapist are critical to the effectiveness of the intervention. Before a family chooses an intervention, they will need to investigate the claims of each therapy so that they understand the possible risks and benefits for a child. Leonardo D. Villamil 06/20/2012, 9:00 a.m.