Autism spectrum disorder is the name for a group of conditions characterized by problems in social interaction, communication and behavior. Symptoms appear by age three, but parents may notice signs long before. In some children the signs will be quite obvious, while others may have very subtle signs.

Normally, children seek out and enjoy contact with others. But a child with autistic spectrum disorder may appear indifferent to social contact. Infants may not want to be held and may avoid eye contact. As children grow, they prefer to play alone and don't like to be cuddled or hugged. Autistic children who try to interact with others may have difficulty understanding or interpreting social cues, gestures and facial expressions.

Communication problems become evident early. Some children don't speak at all. Some start to develop language skills and suddenly stop verbalizing or talking. Others develop language skills much later in life (as late as 5 to 9). The art of conversation is lost for many children with autism spectrum disorders. Many will talk on end about a single subject, giving little time for another person to interject a comment. Some children speak in a monotone voice, while others have a "sing-song" type of speech.

Children with autism spectrum disorders may also have unusual behaviors. They may line their toys in a perfect row or categorize objects in very specific groups. They prefer consistency and can become very distressed when routines are disrupted, even in minor ways. Some children walk on their toes or wave their arms or hands.

According to the Autism Society of America, about 1 to 1.5 million Americans have some form of autism. It's the fastest growing developmental disability in this country, occurring in about 1 out of every 150 births. The annual costs associated with autism are about $90 billion.

Transitioning into Adulthood

When children are identified with an autism spectrum disorder, they may be eligible for educational and social services aimed to address symptoms, improve quality of life and provide the most nurturing educational environment. As they grow up, many of these children are able to go on to college or get a job and live independently. Others require some degree of support. The Autism Society of America estimates 90 percent of the costs for autism are for adult services.

After graduation, making the transition into the adult world can be difficult. Many adults with autism spectrum disorder still often have problems with social skills and communication. Thus, they may continue to need some degree of support.

The University of Pennsylvania runs a social skills seminar to help adolescents with Asperger's (a form of autism) become more confident and capable of living in an adult world. The seminar focuses on social interaction, with participants learning how to strike up and maintain a conversation with others. Initially, they practice in the classroom. Then, the students go with a coach to a public place and start up a conversation with a stranger. The goal is to have a give-and-take type of conversation, with the autism participant actively listening as well as responding. Mary Cohen, Ph.D., a Clinical Psychologist with the University of Pennsylvania, says the exercise can be very anxiety-provoking for participants. But once they are able to achieve the goal of a real conversation, the participants become more confident in themselves.

For general information on Autism Spectrum Disorders:

Autism Society of America

Autism Research Institute

Autism Speaks

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Autism Information Center

National Institute of Mental Health

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

For advocacy information:

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights

GRASP (Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership) is a support group and information services for adults with autism spectrum disorders. They can be found on the internet at http://www.grasp.org .