AUTISM, ASPERGER'S SYNDROME AND AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDERS
Autistic spectrum conditions are a group of developmental problems that appear in early childhood – usually before age 3. They include a gamut of psychological conditions characterized by widespread abnormalities of social interactions and communication, as well as severely restricted interests and highly repetitive behavior. The three main forms of ASD are autism, Asperger syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), sometimes called atypical autism.

AUTISM IN CHILDREN
Autism is a disorder that severely affects a child's ability to communicate and interact with others. Children with autism generally have problems with social interaction, language, and behavior. But because symptoms vary greatly, two children with the same diagnosis may act quite differently and have strikingly different skills. Many children show signs of autism in early infancy. Others may develop normally for the first few years of life but then suddenly become withdrawn, aggressive or lose language skills they've already acquired. Young children may have a hard time sharing experiences with others. As they mature, some children with autism become more engaged with others and show less marked disturbances in behavior, eventually leading normal or near-normal lives. Others continue to have great difficulty with language or social skills, resulting in the worsening of behavior problems during adolescence. Most children with autism are slow to acquire new knowledge or skills and have signs of lower intelligence. Others have normal to high intelligence, quickly learning but still having trouble communicating, applying what they know in everyday life, and adjusting in social situations. An extremely small number of kids are "autistic savants," having exceptional skills in specific areas such as art, math, or music.

ASPERGER'S SYNDROME IN CHILDREN
Asperger's syndrome is a developmental disorder that affects a child's ability to socialize and communicate effectively with others. Children with Asperger's typically exhibit social awkwardness and an all-absorbing interest in specific topics. It is generally thought to be at the milder end of the autistic spectrum. Although similar to autism, children with Asperger's syndrome typically have normal language and intellectual development. Asperger's kids also usually make more of an effort than those with autism to make friends and engage in activities with others. Symptoms typically become apparent as children start preschool. Typically, a child must have a combination of several symptoms and severe trouble with social situations to classify as Asperger's.

WHAT CAN BE DONE?
While there is no cure for autistic spectrum disorder, early diagnosis and intensive treatment can make an enormous difference in the lives of many children. It's often important to obtain a formal evaluation if there are concerns, to determine if and to what degree your child has an ASD. This typically involves a parent interview, a child interview & observation, parent & teacher rating scales/questionnaires, and I.Q. testing. Once identified, therapy can help teach your child how to interact more successfully in social situations.

INFORMATION & SCHEDULING
Call (919) 805-0182 or email Info@WynnsFamilyPsychology for more information and to schedule an appointment. Most new clients are scheduled for their first full appointment at the Cary, NC office location within one to two weeks of calling.




Wynns Family Psychology is a child psychologist / therapist practice in the Cary NC area.