Difference between revisions of "Category:Core Deficits"

Revision as of 15:26, 19 July 2010

Those with ASD have identifiable core deficits recognized by scientists and clinicians.

  1. Core Deficit of Language
  2. Core Deficit of Social Communication
  3. Repetitive Behavior 

Some also argue that those with ASD also have deficits in Visual Perception. Very young children also show a deficit in symbolic play. Many researchers also believe that early atypical attentional modulation contributes in the development of later socio-communicative deficits.16

Although all children with ASD show similar deficits, the depth of these deficits can range drastically. Some have very mild deficits like in Asperger's Syndrome, where children have high levels of vocabulary and language skills. Others may have little to no spoken language functionality. Additionally, there are many syndromes and behaviors that display a high comorbidity with ASD, including:

  1. Tantrums and Aggressive Behavior
  2. Epilepsy
  3. Sleep Disorders
  4. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
  5. Macrocephaly
  6. Anxiety 

Some studies also show evidence of increased serum levels of inflammation and possible immune dysfunction in some children with ASD.12,13,14 Autism Speaks Video Glossary has videos which show the wide range of symptoms and behaviors in children affected by ASD. Signs can be subtle or easy to miss for those with little experience with ASD.