Some Key Facts for Better Understanding ASD
By Carol Fisher-Linn
A young high school lad by the name of Tyler McNamer, has written a book titled Population: ONE. Tyler is on the autism spectrum. He tells us this: “I was diagnosed with autism at age 2. I communicated with a series of frustrated noises and physically “acting out”. I started forming words at age 6; I was not able to speak in full sentences until I was 12. I’ve been called a retard, dumb, and disabled. I’ve been bullied, picked on, and made fun of. They put me in “special” classes and told me that I should not expect to reach my goals. I could not understand why people were so cruel simply because I was different. I process information and see the world differently. I’ve chosen to accept my label of autism, not as a disability, but as an extraordinary ability.”
Tyler has given those of us not on the spectrum an inside look into how the mind of someone on the spectrum works. He understands he is “trapped inside” himself, but he bravely put his thoughts to paper to let outsiders understand from an insider’s perspective. This book is for everyone, including those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It can be ordered online.
The term “autism” has been used for over one hundred years but very little was truly known about it until late into the 20th century. Now affecting 1 in 68 children (mainly boys) it is more common than childhood cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined (Cdc website).
Living with a person with an ASD affects the entire family—parents, siblings, and, in some families, extended members. Meeting the complex needs of a person with an ASD can put families under a great deal of stress—emotional, financial (from a recent study funded by Autism Speaks, lifetime costs of autism average $1.4 million to $2.4 million), and physical. Please be aware that an offer of respite care can give parents and other family caregivers a needed break and help maintain family well-being. Mass General Hospital informs that “parents do not and cannot cause autism disorder. Although the multiple causes of ASD are not known, it is known that parental behavior before, during and after pregnancy does not cause ASD.”
The word “autism” literally means self, or alone, which unfortunately, is the situation that many of those on the spectrum experience. Currently, clinicians and family members no longer use the term “autistic.” The proper expression is “people with autism or autism spectrum disorder” although a diagnosis is elusive since there presently is no means of medical detection. There is no cure. The disorder affects all nationalities and races, usually appearing before age 3 (the earlier it is detected and treated, the better). Girls may be diagnosed later because symptoms in males and females differ.
As Tyler stated, those with ASD have communication deficits. Whether they are verbal or non-verbal, those who interact with them need patience. They are unique individuals, as we all are. Whether verbal or non-verbal, whether they make good eye contact or not, they may be very bright, or not-so-much. Often, they read above their grade level (although comprehension may not necessarily correspond – see study reference below) and can steadily improve in all aspects of their lives, with proper care and services. Unfortunately, those with ASD may also deal with asthma, allergies, epilepsy, sensory integration dysfunction, cognitive impairments, and other medical issues.
Here’s what often gets missed about people with ASD – Thehealthsite.com says they don’t necessarily have a learning disability but lack a lot of other skills which are needed for leading a fulfilling life in society.” They often care deeply, as Tyler points out, but lack the normal ability to socially connect. They can be very creative and exhibit their feelings through a passion for theater, art, and dance. Take a minute to consider that it is speculated that Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, Thomas Jefferson, Michelangelo, Darwin, Mozart, Tesla, the developer of Pokémon (Sotashi Tajiri), and Bill Gates are on the autism spectrum. So please, remember that “autism is not a disability. It is a different ability.” (Stephen Shore, Adelphi University).
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2892026/ The publisher’s final edited version of this article is available at J Autism Dev Disord