Autism / Asperger Syndrome
Biology Research Project
Autism / Asperger Syndrome
I have chosen this disorder because I have a second cousin who was diagnosed with autism at age 3.
Autism is not based on ethnic, racial, or social background. It is four times more common in males than in females. Most people that have been diagnosed with autism, are diagnosed with it during their childhood. Autism is the most commonly childhood developmental disorder. One in 150 children in the United States are affected by autism spectrum disorder.
Symptoms
Autism usually develops before the age of 3 and each individual is affected in a different way. Many children with autism have repetitive movements such as rocking, spinning, twirling or jumping. In some cases children will show self-abusive behavior like hand bitting or head banging. About half of children diagnosed with autism will have mental retardation and 25 percent will also develop seizers. Children may fell to respond to their name or will often avoid eye contact with others.
Cause of Disorder
Autism plays both genetic and environmental roles. There have been numeral theories and studies about what causes this disorder, though researchers have still not found these specific causes that cause this disorder. Autism has many symptoms to which may have many causes. This is thought to be a biological-based disorder. This disorder is most likely a genetic predisposition, though there are no explanations to the causes of this autism spectrum disorder. About 15 percent of people with autism can be diagnosed with secondary autism.
Treatment and Testing
There currently is no cure for autism, though it can be managed and shaped at a young age. Early intensive care can have a positive effect on development later in their life. Treatment for autism includes medical and behavioral therapies which help children with conversational and social interactions. Decrease in self-injury behavior, tantrums, and self-stimulation are also involved in treatment to help children. Medications help treat symptoms like a poor sleep, and repetitive behavior. There are no medications specific for autism, medications should be used in a family center, or behavioral and education program.
Clinical observations, development and intelligence tests are some of the was they can determine if a child has autism or not. Parents are asked if the child's development is delayed in different situations. Test given to evaluate if the child's developmental affects his or her ability to think or make decisions. Physical exams are used to determine if the child has a normal growth pattern.
Population Effects
Autism can be found in people all over the world and among all racial, ethnic, and social groups. This disorder occurs four time more in male children than in females. However, females with this disorder generally have more severe symptoms and greater intellectual. Children who are diagnosed with autism today may have been considered "odd" 20 or 30 years ago, but this may also be that there has been an increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism.
What I discovered...
I've learned that autism is not based on ethnics, racial or social background but is four times more common in boys than in girls. There is no cure for autism but it may be treated with medical and behavioral therapies. Most likely this disorder is a genetic predisposition, yet there are no explanations for the causes of this disorder.
Autistic Child
Punnet Square
Parts of the brain affected by autism
What is autism?
Inspirational Video of A Autistic Basketball High School Player