Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder: Diagnosis, Prevalence, and Misconceptions

🔍Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder is based on deficits in social interaction, non-verbal communication, and restricted interests.

⚠️Autism Spectrum Disorder is more common in boys and typically emerges between 12 to 18 months of age.

🌍The term 'autism' was first used in 1908 by Eugene Bleuler, a psychiatrist, to describe patients with withdrawn and self-absorbed behaviors.

📚The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder is around 1% of the population, and it is considered a neurodevelopmental condition.

❌Previous misconceptions, such as the 'refrigerator mother' theory, have been debunked. Autism is not caused by cold parenting.

How is autism diagnosed?

—Autism is diagnosed based on deficits in social interaction, non-verbal communication, and restricted interests. A comprehensive evaluation by a licensed professional is required.

At what age do symptoms of autism typically emerge?

—Symptoms of autism usually emerge between 12 to 18 months of age, although it can be challenging to diagnose before 24 months.

Is autism more common in boys or girls?

—Autism is more common in boys, with a prevalence of around 1 in 59 boys and 1 in 252 girls.

What are the key features of autism spectrum disorder?

—The key features of autism spectrum disorder include impaired social communication, restricted and repetitive behaviors, and specific interests.

What causes autism?

—The exact cause of autism is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

00:24The term 'autism' was first used in 1908 by Eugene Bleuler to describe self-absorbed behaviors.

02:40Autism Spectrum Disorder is diagnosed based on deficits in social interaction, non-verbal communication, and restricted interests.

06:48The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder is around 1% of the population, and it is considered a neurodevelopmental condition.

10:42Previous misconceptions, such as the 'refrigerator mother' theory, have been debunked. Autism is not caused by cold parenting.

13:28Symptoms of autism usually emerge between 12 to 18 months of age, although it can be challenging to diagnose before 24 months.