Around 1% of the population worldwide has autism. While autism is not a common condition, it is important to understand the symptoms of it.
Symptoms usually show up relatively early in childhood and persist throughout the child’s life.
Diagnosing autism mainly depends on the symptoms that a child exhibits. While every child may have unique symptoms, there are some signs that are more or less the same across people diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. So what should you look for and how can you know for sure if your child has autism?
The Common Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder
The symptoms of autism often become apparent as a child gets older. Before 9 months of age, it will be difficult to diagnose a child with autism. But by 9 months of age and older, a child should normally start to exhibit normal patterns of social interaction.
They should also be able to start incorporating new knowledge in their everyday life. For example, by the time a child is 9 months old, the child should be able to respond to their name when called. If the child does not usually respond to their own name, this may be one of the first symptoms of autism.
The Details
Of course, a child with autism will likely express many other symptoms in addition to this one, especially as the child gets older. A very common autism symptom is that the child is unable to make eye contact or does not want to make eye contact with other people. They may also not like being touched or held.
Diagnosing ASD becomes easier once a child reaches toddlerhood and childhood. At that point, it will be easier to study the child’s interactions (or lack of interactions) with others. They may also start to exhibit patterns of behavior that are unusual for children.
These patterns may include repetitive movements like clapping or rocking back and forth. They may also make repetitive sounds and may be delayed when it comes to speaking, writing, and reading.
Diagnosing Autism With the Help of a Professional
As a parent, you might be able to notice certain symptoms that are characteristic of autism in your child. However, you won’t be able to make an official diagnosis on your own. Instead, you’ll need the help of a trained professional such as a psychologist or therapist in Tampa.
A psychologist will be able to study your child’s development and pick out any unusual symptoms they may exhibit. Psychoeducational testing, Tampa, is particularly important.
If your child has enough symptoms to fit certain criteria, the psychologist may diagnose the child with autism. In that case, the psychologist will tell you what you can expect raising a child with autism and you will have the chance to ask questions about the condition and how it will affect their development.
All About Diagnosing Autism
Diagnosing autism isn’t difficult, but there are certain symptoms you should be aware of. If a child has autism, they will exhibit signs early on, usually around 9 months of age.
If you suspect your child has autism, click here to see how we can help.