A review of literature revealed a debate that exists regarding autism spectrum disorder. While some think that it is a clearly defined disorder, others argue that it is a spectrum of undefined and varied characteristics. A deeper look into autism will provide an understanding of how to cope with this neuro type developmental disorder.
What is Autism?
Research reveals that Autism is a serious developmental disorder characterized by severe impairment in the development of verbal and nonverbal communication skills as well as a marked impairment in reciprocal social interaction.
The term Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have frequently been used interchangeably. One study in the United States estimates that there are five categories of disorders included in the spectrum under PDD and ASD which include: Asperger disorder, Autistic disorder, Rett’s disorder, Pervasive developmental disorder and Childhood disintegrated disorder. Someone with autism spectrum disorder has one or more classic deficit in communication, repetitiveness and language.
Today, there are still more questions than answers about autism after this disease was first described 74 years ago by American psychiatrist Leo Kanner.
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Researchers reveal that more than one in every 110 children are diagnosed with autism, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and paediatric AIDS combined. There is no established explanation for this increase, although improved diagnosis and environmental influences are two reasons often considered. Studies suggest boys are more likely than girls to develop autism and receive the diagnosis three to four times more frequently. Current estimates are that in the United States alone, one out of 70 boys are diagnosed with autism.
What are the causes of Autism?
The best scientific evidence available today points toward a potential for various combinations of factors causing autism – multiple genetic components that may cause autism on their own or possibly when combined with exposure to as yet undetermined environmental factors.
Researchers reveal that the vast majority of cases of autism are idiopathic, which means the cause is unknown. While the definitive causes of autism are not yet clear, it is clear that it is not caused by bad parenting. Fortunately, the Autism Society of America and the Autism Research Institute have helped the medical community to understand that autism, is not caused by cold parents but rather is a biological disorder.
Presently, there is not a medical test for autism; a diagnosis is based on observed behaviour and educational and psychological testing. Autism Speaks and other autism related organizations in Nigeria are working hard to educate parents and physicians so that children with autism are identified as early as possible. From birth to at least 36 months of age, every child should be screened for developmental milestones during routine visits. If concerns about a child’s development are raised, doctors should refer the child to early intervention and a specialist for a developmental evaluation.
Treating Autism:
Treatment for autism is a very 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 while others may be delivered in a specialized centre and special education school settings. These professionals provide both academic, speech, behaviour and basic skill lessons that help curb challenges in autism.
Universal acceptance:
On March 31,2017, ahead of the World Autism Awareness Day, the United Nations called for recognizing the rights of all individuals with autism to make their own decisions. This spectrum neurological condition according to the UN statistical report is believed to affect over 70 million people around the world. It is obvious that a lack of understanding of the causes and effects of autism has in many cases led to the proliferation of misinformation, anxiety and confusion.
The United Nations called for early intervention, health and support services programs to ensure that individuals with autism can assess education, training and jobs so that ultimately, autism does not define them.
The African continent should be aware of the stigmatization and discrimination associated with the autism spectrum and make dynamic efforts to provide support services to protect the rights of all individuals with disabilities including those diagnosed with autism. The following declaration of recognition and support for autism by the United Nations on the World Autism Awareness Day should be noted: “On this World Autism Awareness day, let us all play a part in changing attitudes towards persons with autism and in recognizing their rights as citizens who, like everyone else, are entitled to claim those rights and make decisions for their lives in accordance with their own will and preferences.” -Antonio Guterres. (Secretary-General of the United Nations.)
The Challenge:
There is optimism that with the appropriate training and education, young adults with autism spectrum disorder can integrate meaningfully into our communities. It is also obvious especially, in Nigeria, that the transition from school services to adulthood can be challenging for individuals with autism who face significant obstacles in multiple areas as they attempt to negotiate their way into university, work, community participation and independent living. There will be a phenomenal growth in special education services if we all build a supportive network here in Nigeria and in the entire continent of Africa to ensure that children with disabilities especially, those with autism are supported in public and private charter schools to acquire basic life and vocational skills.
Isaac Osae-Brown works for the Compton Unified School District in California, as an Education Specialist and a beginning Teacher Mentor. He is an advocate and a speaker for Special Education services in the United States and abroad. www.facebook.com/inclusivemindset/
