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Autism Spectrum Disorder, commonly referred to as ASD or autism, has become an increasingly common diagnosis. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that as many as 1 in 36 individuals in the US will be diagnosed. In the US, the average age of diagnosis is 5, but it can often be reliably diagnosed as early as age 2. When assessing autism, it is important to note that the diagnosis is based on behavioral characteristics rather than a biological test. While all children develop at their own pace, here are some things to look for early on that may warrant further investigation:
Reacting in an unexpected way to new faces
Rarely smiling in social situations
Making little or no eye contact
Difficulty in following objects with their eyes
Hearing their name does not produce a response
Having limited or no reaction to loud sounds, or not turning their head to locate sounds
Overreacting to some sounds
Displaying a lack of interest in interactive games, like peek-a-boo
Chattering, or imitating sounds and words is limited
Limited or no speech
Difficulty in following simple verbal instructions
Gestures like pointing at an object they want or waving back at others are limited
The tendency not to imitate the actions of other people
Dislike being touched or cuddled, or not reaching out when about to be picked up
Displaying unusual or repetitive body movements.
Only walking on their toes
Imitation of others’ actions is limited
Showing an intense interest in certain objects, at the exclusion of all else
Showing an intense interest in unusual or unexpected objects or materials
Unwillingness to share objects or activities they are interested in, or engage the attention of others, or
Engaging in repetitive actions and activities, such as putting objects into lines or groups, etc.
At Kinsler Psychology, we conduct FREE Autism Screenings monthly for individuals ages 2 - 22. Call us at (813) 443-5311 or visit the website at www.kinslerpsychology.com to learn more.
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