Autism

Child with autism Autism is a disability that affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them.

There are several different forms of autism including Autistic disorder, Asperger syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified.

Individuals with autism vary enormously but they all share the ‘core’ features of autism:

- difficulty with social communication e.g. they may not be able to speak or find it hard to begin or carry on a conversation.

- difficulty with social interaction e.g. they may not understand social rules such as how far to stand from somebody else.

- difficulty with social imagination (theory of mind) e.g. they may not be able to understand and interpret other people’s thoughts, feelings and actions.

Individuals with autism also demonstrate a narrow, repetitive range of thoughts and activities. For example, they may develop an overwhelming interest in something, follow inflexible routines or rituals, or make repetitive body movements.

However many people with autism also have significant strengths These may include a good eye for detail, a high level of accuracy and reliability, an excellent memory for facts and figures, and the ability to thrive in a structured, well-organised work environment. Some also have considerable creative talent. Because of this, some individuals with autism do not consider autism to be a disability but a neurological difference.

Individuals with autism often have other conditions, such as sensory sensitivity, epilepsy and gastrointestinal problems. They may also have mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Some, but not all, will behave in difficult and challenging ways.

Because of these problems, people with autism often struggle to make friends, do well at school, or find appropriate jobs. However, with the right help tailored to the needs of the individual person, some people with autism can lead relatively independent lives. Others will continue to need support and understanding throughout their lives.

We believe wholeheartedly in the value of people with autism and the contribution they can make to the community. We also appreciate the real difficulties they face and their need for the right support. We seek to encourage and evaluate those interventions which will alleviate distress and promote independence leading to more fulfilling lives.

Last Updated : 09/12/2011 Back to Top