Autism why

How do these genetic and nongenetic influences give rise to autism? Most appear to affect crucial aspects of early brain development. Some appear to affect how brain nerve cells, or neurons, communicate with each other. Others appear to affect how entire regions of the brain communicate with each other. Research continues to explore these differences with an eye to developing treatments and supports that can improve quality of life.

Asperger Syndrome Autism Statistics and Facts. Associated Conditions Sensory Issues. Treatments Access Services Insurance. Information by Topic. Resource Guide. Autism Response Team. Our Mission. Our Grantmaking. Other researchers are investigating the possibility that under certain conditions, a cluster of unstable genes may interfere with brain development, resulting in autism.

Still other researchers are investigating problems during pregnancy or delivery as well as environmental factors such as viral infections, metabolic imbalances and exposure to chemicals. Autism tends to occur more frequently than expected among individuals who have certain medical conditions , including fragile X syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, congenital rubella syndrome and untreated phenylketonuria PKU. Some harmful substances ingested during pregnancy also have been associated with an increased risk of autism.

This website uses 'cookies' to give you the best, most relevant experience. Sesame Street spent five years gathering information before launching Julia as part of their See Amazing in All Children initiative. They canvassed the community and professionals extensively about describing Julia as autistic or having autism. I've lost count of the number of times I want to call someone out on the language they've used around autism or disability.

Shannon Des Roches Rosa has been writing about autism since her son Leo was diagnosed on the autism spectrum in and she is the senior editor of The Thinking Person's Guide to Autism. The flip side of that is that through Patch and autistic community I've learnt some beautiful words which are important to them; words that celebrate difference, like neurodiverse and neurodivergent.

It will be Patch's decision how he describes himself as he grows up and we'll respect that. And I'm sure the language used in the autism community will evolve as understanding continues to shift. My son is autistic. He's an incredible singer. He's a beautiful, talented, intelligent and adorable boy who changes people's worlds when he meets them. We are so lucky to be his mum and dad. Get our newsletter for the best of ABC Everyday each week. ABC Everyday helps you navigate life's challenges and choices so you can stay on top of the things that matter to you.

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I was terrified of getting it wrong. Does it even matter? I've learnt that it really does. Email address.