Autism spectrum disorder

Autism spectrum disorder means the symptoms and characteristics of autism present themselves in a wide variety of combinations, ranging from mild to severe. Although Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviours, peole can exhibit any combination of these behaviours in any degree of severity. At this time there are no specific genetic or biological markers that accurately identify a person as being on the autism spectrum.

Autism spectrum disorders result from abnormal brain development and function, which typically appears within the first three years of life. As a result, impairments may exist across three main areas of functioning:

• impairments of social interaction
• impairments in communication
• restricted or repetitive interests and activities.

Other characteristics that can be associated with autistic conditions are stereotyped movements, resistance to environmental change or change in daily routines and unusual response to sensory experiences. Autism spectrum disorders are often, but not always, associated with intellectual disabilities.

Symptoms and characteristics:

People with autism spectrum disorders typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions and other activities. Impairments usually exist across three main areas of functioning.

• impairments of social interaction
• impairments in communication
• restricted or repetitive interests and activities

For specific workplace information relating to assisting people with autism in the workplace, please follow the link:

• How to support job seekers with autism

Case studies and success stories:

For employers and managers:

• Retail—Gain reliable staff with a productivity based wage

For job seekers and employees:

• Autism—A wage based on productivity secures the job

For service providers:

• Autism—A productivity based wage secures the job

Relevant links:

More information about Autism Spectrum Disorder can be founded at Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) website. This link will open in a new window.

• Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect)

References:

Autism Association of Western Australia Inc. (no date specified), Brochure: What is Autism?, Autism Association of Western Australia Inc., Perth, viewed 6 March 2009, <http://www.autism.org.au/BROCHUREWHAT%20IS%20AUTISM.pdf>.

Autismhelp 2004, autismhelp.info, Autismhelp, Melbourne ,viewed 6 March 2009, <http://www.autismhelp.info/main.htm>.

Autism Spectrum Australia 2005, What is Autism?, Autism Spectrum Australia, Sydney, viewed 6 March 2009, <http://www.aspect.org.au/about%20autism/whatis.asp>.

Links to specific types of Autism spectrum disorder: