What is Autism? What are its Symptoms?

Autism is a complex developmental disorder that typically manifests symptoms within the first two years of life. Medically referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects an individual's social communication, interaction, behavior, and learning processes in various ways. The symptoms of autism do not present the same way in every individual; hence it is referred to as a "spectrum." A symptom that is prominent in one person may not be present at all in another. This means that individuals with autism can have very different abilities, challenges, and needs.

Core Symptoms of Autism: Communication and Social Interaction

The symptoms of autism are most prominently displayed in the areas of social communication and interaction. When these symptoms are noticed at an early age, they provide an important starting point for diagnosis and treatment processes.

• Verbal and Nonverbal Communication Difficulties: Individuals with autism may struggle to use or understand spoken language. While some may not speak at all, others may use repetitive phrases (echolalia) or construct sentences in reverse. Avoiding eye contact or having very brief eye contact, struggling to understand facial expressions, and being unable to interpret emotional responses are also common symptoms. They may remain indifferent to the emotional state of others or respond inappropriately.

• Difficulty in Social Relationships: They may have trouble playing and using their imagination. They often prefer to be alone and may be reluctant to interact with peers. They may struggle to develop joint attention; that is, their ability to focus on an object or event simultaneously with others and share that focus may be weak.

• Avoidance of Physical Contact: Some autistic children may react excessively to physical contacts such as being held, kissed, or hugged. This may result from sensory sensitivity to touch and is not due to a lack of affection but rather stems from a neurological condition.

• Appearing Uninterested: Their interests may be directed more towards inanimate objects rather than people. For instance, they may focus on the wheel of a toy car for an extended period instead of pushing the car back and forth.

Behavioral and Sensory Symptoms

Autism manifests with various symptoms that affect not only communication but also an individual's behavior and sensory perception.

• Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests: Individuals with autism may exhibit repetitive movements (such as hand-flapping, rocking, or walking on tiptoes) or show an excessive attachment to routines. Even the slightest change in their daily routines (for example, taking a different route home) can result in extreme stress and crises. They may focus intensely on a specific topic or object and can become extremely distressed or have a meltdown if that interest is changed or if a beloved object is moved.

• Sensory Sensitivities: Sensory perception differences are common in autistic individuals. Some may be quite insensitive to factors like heat, cold, or pain, while others may show extreme sensitivity to certain sounds, bright lights, touches, or smells. A sudden noise or bright light can be very distressing for them.

• Eating Disorders: Some autistic individuals may prefer to eat only a few foods due to sensitivity to the texture, color, or smell of certain foods. Rarely, they may put inedible items (like porcelain, metal, or paper) in their mouths.

• Differences in Motor Development: Autistic children may show developmental differences in motor skills. While some may walk and climb quite well, others may be very clumsy and exhibit an unsteady gait.

Autism and Intelligence: Common Knowledge and Misconceptions

About 10% of individuals with autism may exhibit exceptional abilities, such as strong memory, musical talent, or mathematical skills. These individuals are often referred to as "savants." However, a significant portion also has varying degrees of intellectual disability. When intelligence tests are administered, it is observed that they perform very well in some areas while performing poorly in others. This highlights the spectrum nature of autism and emphasizes that each individual has a unique profile.

Causes and Risk Factors of Autism

The exact cause of autism is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to arise from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is strong evidence suggesting that autism may be hereditary, but the specific gene or genes responsible have not yet been fully identified. Autism is not a mental illness; it is a developmental disorder and has no connection to how a child is raised, the family's socio-economic status, or cultural differences. It is four times more common in boys than in girls.

Early Diagnosis and Recommendations for Families

Early diagnosis and intervention in autism can significantly improve the quality of life for the individual. It is crucial for parents to consult a specialist if they observe the following signs in their children:

• No smiling or happy expressions by 6 months

• No babbling or waving by 12 months

• No single words by 16 months

• No two-word phrases by 24 months

• Loss of any language or social skills at any age

Intensive and individualized educational programs that start at an early age (such as applied behavior analysis, speech therapy, sensory integration therapy, etc.) can help autistic children develop their communication, social, and cognitive skills.

Autism is a complex and multifaceted developmental disorder. With early diagnosis and appropriate education, the quality of life for individuals with autism can be significantly improved. If you suspect your child may exhibit any of the signs mentioned above, consulting a specialist without delay is the best course of action. It should be remembered that autism is not a disease but a different developmental journey. With the right support, it is possible to help individuals with autism discover their potential, integrate into society, and lead meaningful lives.