What is Autism?
Autism (sometimes called “classical autism”) is the most common condition in a group of developmental disorders known as the autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Autism is characterized by impaired social interaction, problems with verbal and nonverbal communication, and unusual, repetitive, or severely limited activities and interests. Other ASDs include Asperger syndrome, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (usually referred to as PDD-NOS). Experts estimate that 1:150 kids born today will have autism. Males are four times more likely to have autism than females. If you separate the group to only males then that ratio increases to 1:94!
Remember Autism is a spectrum disorder. Something that effects one person with autism does not necessarily affect another. Also Autism is not fatal! If you are having a hard time coming to grips with the diagnosis you are not alone! It took me a long time to realize that the diagnosis did not change my daughter. The diagnosis only gave me the information necessary to treat her!
You still have the same child! Now you just have to learn how to best teach that individual how to get along in the world! As a dad that is still your number one job! Join our forum and learn what to do next!
