- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) describes a range of differences in neurodevelopment existing from early childhood.
- It is not precisely known where autism comes from, but there is no known single entity that causes autism alone.
- Early interventions can help individuals with ASD function independently.
Learning about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and what autism looks like begins with the fact that it is not a singular disorder but rather a spectrum – with broad differences in neurodevelopment affecting social interaction, behavior, and communication.
Each individual with autism is unique, and the disorder can come with varying strengths and difficulties based on their form of autism spectrum disorder.
There’s no simple answer to “Where does autism come from?”. There is no single cause.
The Diagnosis
In establishing what autism spectrum disorder is, and what it means for each individual, it’s important to note that diagnosis often occurs in early childhood. Signs might include delayed speech, lack of eye contact, repetitive behavior, or intense preoccupation with special interests. But because autism is a spectrum, the signs may be subtle or masked, especially in girls, leading to later diagnosis.
So, what autism actually looks like in everyday life can be quite varied. One child may be non-verbal and struggle with loud noises, but another child may be speech-fluent but struggle with social cues and sarcasm. Adults on the autism spectrum may be brilliant at technical work but struggle with normal conversation or a change of routine. Appreciating this diversity is essential in order to build a supportive and inclusive society.
Comprehending what autism spectrum disorder is and where autism comes from also means comprehending the criteria used for diagnosis. The American Psychiatric Association outlines ASD in the DSM-5 as consisting of persistent difficulties with social communication, along with restricted or repetitive behavior, interests, or activities. Symptoms must exist from early development and produce interference with functioning in daily life. While not all autistic persons will have similar problems, all have this common neurological profile.
To understand autism, we need to understand the lived experience of people with autism. Sensory sensitivities– heightened sensitivity to lights, sounds, or textures– have been described by numerous individuals. Others describe needing more time to decode language or getting lost in social environments. All of these phenomena are differences rather than deficits, and embracing neurodiversity means being able to value different ways of thinking and interacting with the world.
Autism isn’t something that can or should be “cured.” Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong neurological difference. Having said that, many people on the spectrum will develop the skills they need over time, especially with early intervention, support, and accommodations. Specialized therapy can help those with autism learn coping skills to more effectively navigate challenges.
Family history may play a part in where autism comes from. Autism tends to run in families, and siblings of a person with autism are at higher risk of having autism as well. Hundreds of genes that might predispose one to be more at-risk for autism have been found, but there is no single gene that results in the disorder directly.
Brain imaging studies show changed connectivity and activity in certain regions and suggest that autism begins very early in life – possibly even before birth. Describing these patterns can guide more effective support systems, but we need to remember that autism is not a disease to be eradicated.
Will Autism Ever Go Away?
In order to really get what autism spectrum disorder is, and what autism looks like, listen to the perspectives of people with autism. Self-advocates with autism stress the necessity of acceptance over awareness. Autistic individuals can bring creativity, honesty, concentrated effort, and new ways of problem-solving to their workplaces and communities. Shifting away from a medical model to a neurodiversity model allows for greater dignity and empowerment.
Early intervention is crucial. Speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral treatment, and inclusive education can all play a crucial role in helping autistic children achieve their full potential. But help needn’t end at childhood. Adults on the spectrum also need access to mental health care, employment, and social integration.
Learning about autism spectrum disorder is also learning to unlearn myths. Autism is not caused by vaccines — a long-discredited myth that continues to persist. It’s not a mental illness, and it’s not caused by poor parenting. Autistic people can have intimate relationships, feel empathy, and live full lives. They just may express emotions or needs differently than what is deemed “normal.”
Instead of viewing autism as a problem to be cured, we could work to remove societal barriers to allow people to thrive. Acceptance, inclusion, and accessibility are much more important than wishing for a “cure.”
The reality is, autism is an ordinary component of human variation. It’s a difference, not a flaw. By advancing knowledge, hearing the autistic community, and establishing a more accepting world, we create a future in which neurodiversity is honored – not shunned. That’s a beautiful future to work toward.