The character in Rain Man had savant syndrome, where someone is exceptionally good at mental arithmetic, for example, but struggles to tie their own shoelaces. Autism is much broader than that.
What is autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that covers a range of conditions and degrees. Together, these are grouped under the name autism spectrum disorder, or ASD. The term developmental disorder may well ring a bell too.
Some well-known conditions are:
- Classic autism
- Asperger's syndrome
- PDD-NOS
- McDD
- Social communication disorder
Listing specific characteristics is not straightforward, because "autism" is a general term that covers a great many conditions. That is why it is important to look at the unique characteristics of the person with autism. It is also true that the younger the person, the easier the characteristics are to recognise. In many cases, though, you will see the following:
- Limited social interaction
- Difficulty with verbal and non-verbal communication
- Repetitive and stereotyped behaviour
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings
- Hypersensitivity to touch
- A strong focus on detail
Everyone shows the above traits from time to time, and that is perfectly normal. Do the symptoms persist? Then you can ask your GP for advice.
How do you live with autism?
Rain Man showed not only the difficulties someone with autism faces, but also how the people close to them cope with the condition.
You will notice that a specific way of communicating, and the skill with which this is done, is decisive for the lives of everyone involved. Some useful tips:
- Keep your wording matter-of-fact rather than emotional
- Give the other person time to take in the message
- Use short, concrete sentences
- Be clear, and put yourself in their shoes as much as you can
- Do not rely on facial expressions alone
- Avoid open questions
To a child with autism, for instance, you would not say "what would you like to eat?", but "would you like an apple or a biscuit?". By communicating well, you will understand the behaviour of the person with autism better and avoid misunderstandings.
Do you still have questions or doubts? Then do contact your GP or organisations such as the Flemish Autism Association