Decoding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism is a spectrum of conditions with a common set of signs, rather than a single disorder. Every person on the autism spectrum finds communication, flexible behaviour, empathy and social engagement challenging to some extent. But the severity and the mix of signs vary greatly from person to person. Two children with the same diagnosis may behave and function very differently.

As a parent, you may hear terms like “high-functioning autism”, “atypical autism”, “autism spectrum disorder” and “pervasive developmental disorder”. They can be confusing, not only because there are so many, but because parents, therapists and doctors don't always use them in the same way.

Focus on your child, not the label

Whatever the experts call it, your child's specific needs are what matter most. A diagnosis alone can't tell you your child's particular challenges. The most helpful thing you can do is find support that caters to your child's needs, rather than focusing on what to call the issue.

You don't need a diagnosis to start getting help for your child's difficulties. And remember, showing a few signs of autism doesn't necessarily mean a child has autism spectrum disorder. A diagnosis is based on multiple signs that affect a person's ability to learn, play, explore and communicate.