[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” admin_label=”Header” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_color=”#00464d” custom_padding=”||6px|” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=”The Autism experience.” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_fullwidth_header][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Services” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_image=”https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/RandomlyPlacedPuzzlePieces.png” custom_padding=”0|0px|54px|0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_image=”https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/AutismSociety_Shape_1920px_Seafoam-Copy.png” background_size=”custom” background_image_width=”92%” background_image_height=”100%” background_position=”bottom_left” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_blurb title=”Understanding Autism.” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h1″ header_font=”|700|||||||” header_text_color=”#00464d” header_font_size=”49px” width=”100%” custom_padding=”|0px||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_color=”#8c003b” header_font_size=”26px” min_height=”309px” custom_padding=”||86px|16px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/scautism.org\/screening-diagnosis\/” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Learn More!” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_blurb _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Understanding-Autism.png” alt=”Understanding Autism” title_text=”Understanding Autism” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_image=”https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Untitled-design-2.png” background_enable_image=”on” parallax=”off” background_size=”stretch” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_tabs active_tab_background_color=”#ff5a3f” inactive_tab_background_color=”#f2e5dd” active_tab_text_color=”#fcfcfb” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” tab_text_color=”#00464d” body_text_align=”left” body_text_color=”#00464d” tab_font=”|700|||||||” tab_font_size=”16px” tab_line_height=”2.6em” width=”100%” module_alignment=”left” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_tab title=”Screening and diagnosis. ” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” body_text_color=”#bde6d3″ background_color=”#00464d” background_enable_color=”on” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Autism is characterized in the\u00a0American Psychiatric Association\u2019s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5)<\/a><\/strong><\/span>, which is used by clinicians to diagnose Autism by: Persistent differences in communication, interpersonal relationships, and social interaction across different environments. What this can look like:<\/p>\n Restricted and repetitive behavior, patterns, activities and interests. What this can look like:<\/p>\n For more information about screening and diagnosis, click here.<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n<\/div>\n [\/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title=”Prevalence. ” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” body_text_align=”left” body_text_color=”#bde6d3″ background_color=”#00464d” background_enable_color=”on” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Autism is prevalent\u00a0across the world<\/a><\/strong><\/span><\/span>, although tracking rates can vary due to differences in reporting. In 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)\u00a0<\/span>issued its Autism prevalence report<\/a><\/strong><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title=”Causes & factors. ” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” body_text_align=”left” body_text_color=”#bde6d3″ background_color=”#00464d” background_enable_color=”on” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n There is no known single cause for Autism, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by differences in brain structure or function. Brain scans show differences in the shape and structure of the brain in people with Autism compared to in neurotypical development. Researchers do not know the exact cause of Autism but are investigating a number of theories, including the links among heredity, genetics, and medical problems. There has been misinformation about the cause of Autism. It is not caused by vaccines or due to parenting style or nutrition.<\/p>\n In many families, there appears to be a pattern of Autism or related disabilities, further supporting the theory that the disorder has a genetic basis.<\/p>\n While no one gene has been identified as causing Autism, researchers are searching for irregular segments of genetic code that people with Autism may have inherited. It also appears that some people are born with a susceptibility to Autism, but researchers have not yet identified a single \u201ctrigger\u201d that causes Autism to develop.<\/p>\n Other researchers are investigating the possibility that under certain conditions, a cluster of unstable genes may affect brain development in an unexpected way, resulting in Autism. Still other researchers are investigating complications during pregnancy or delivery as well as environmental factors such as viral infections, metabolic imbalances, and exposure to chemicals.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title=”The DSM-5. ” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” body_text_align=”left” body_text_color=”#bde6d3″ background_color=”#00464d” background_enable_color=”on” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The DSM-5 is used by clinicians to diagnose Autism and the features of Autism are described in this document. The DSM-5 criteria require that the core features of Autism be present in early childhood. However, for some children, the symptoms may not fully manifest until social demands exceed the person\u2019s capacity to cope with them. In addition, challenges may be masked by learned coping strategies and support.\u00a0 To learn more about receiving an Autism diagnosis, visit our Screening & Diagnosis page.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_tab][et_pb_tab title=”Genetic vulnerability. ” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” body_text_align=”left” body_text_color=”#bde6d3″ background_color=”#00464d” background_enable_color=”on” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Autism tends to occur more frequently than expected among individuals who have certain medical conditions, including fragile X syndrome (FXS), tuberous sclerosis, congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), and untreated phenylketonuria (PKU). Some harmful substances ingested during pregnancy also have been associated with an increased likelihood of Autism.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_tab][\/et_pb_tabs][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb title=”Signs and characteristics.” content_max_width=”1100px” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Autism impacts an individual throughout the lifespan. However, research shows that early diagnosis can lead to improved quality of life. The behaviors of Autism may be apparent in infancy, but they usually become clearer during early childhood. As part of a regular health visit, your child\u2019s doctor should perform developmental screenings focused on Autism. This screening is recommended at ages 18 and 24 months for all children.<\/p>\n Your doctor will encourage you to ask specific questions about your child\u2019s developmental progress.\u00a0<\/span>The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>developed a detailed list of behaviors, listed in four categories: communication, social behavior, stereotyped behavior, and other behavior. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed a list of Signs and Symptoms, which can be found\u00a0<\/span>here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_slider _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_image=”off” background_size=”custom” background_image_width=”100%” background_image_height=”34%” background_position=”bottom_left” background_vertical_offset=”-3%” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_slide heading=”Communication.” image=”https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/4.png” image_alt=”AutismSociety_EricJones_242″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Social behavior.” image=”https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/3-1.png” image_alt=”15″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Stereotyped behavior.” image=”https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/1-1.png” image_alt=”1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Other behavior.” button_text=”Screening and diagnosis.” url_new_window=”on” image=”https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/2.png” image_alt=”2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_button=”on” button_text_color=”#fcfcfb” button_bg_color=”#ff5a3f” button_font=”|700|||||||” button_icon_color=”#ff5a3f” button_on_hover=”on” button_alignment=”left” link_option_url_new_window=”on” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on” button_link=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9wYWdlIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjY2NDAifX0=@” _dynamic_attributes=”button_link” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb title=”Connect with us.” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Reach out to us here at the South Carolina Autism Society for information and resources.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/scautism.org\/contact-us\/” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Get Support” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), hereafter referred to as Autism (which includes Asperger\u2019s Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder \u2013 Not Otherwise Specified [PDD-NOS]), is a complex, lifelong developmental condition that typically appears during early childhood and can impact a person\u2019s social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation. The Autism experience is different for everyone. It is defined […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6601"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6601"}],"version-history":[{"count":14,"href":"https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6601\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6691,"href":"https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6601\/revisions\/6691"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/scautism.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6601"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n