Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Introduction

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodivergent condition affecting around 1-2% of the population caused by differences in brain functioning, affecting how people interact, communicate, and experience the world (Autism; Genovese et al., 2023). Individuals diagnosed with ASD possess a wide range of differing traits compared to the general population, but ASD is most commonly characterized by challenges in social communication and repetitive behavior (Autism). Scientists have associated certain genetic and environmental factors with ASD, although they haven’t identified any concrete cause. While ASD is not a disease and therefore can’t be “cured,” early diagnosis and therapy can aid in mitigating challenges, like social barriers, to improve quality of life.

Traits

Since individuals with ASD have brains that function differently, they exhibit mannerisms and behavioral traits that differ from the societal norm. For example, some individuals repeat the same motion or word over and over again, prefer routine and resist change, have fixated interests like animals, or react to sensory inputs including noise, smell, and texture (Autism). People with autism can also experience increased irritability, aggression, mood disorders, and anxiety. Communication differences are similarly common. Those with ASD may struggle with eye contact, facial expression, and subtle social cues otherwise understood by the general populace. Additionally, some find it difficult to express interest or understand the feelings, thoughts, or imaginations of others (Prelock et al., 2012). These differences can present challenges in social settings; however, they do not capture the full experience of autism. While the traits of people with autism are most often seen as deficits, individuals also demonstrate many strengths (Woods et al., 2023). Many individuals with ASD express themselves honestly and directly, even when going against a popular opinion, and have a strong moral compass. While they are usually more selective about friendships, which therefore helps themform strong connections with those accepted as companions. Additionally, repetitive actions can serve as coping strategies to regulate emotions and highly focused interests can lead to mastery in certain subjects. It is important to remember that autism is a spectrum, and no two people experience it in the same way. Behaviors vary in type and degree, and each person has a unique combination of challenges and strengths.

Causes

While there is not a singular cause of autism, continuous research links many genetic and environmental risk factors to ASD. With genetic factors accounting for 80% of the risk for ASD (Genovese et al., 2023), it is seemingly the most prominent cause. Genetic tests have linked many cases of autism to gene mutations, often finding deletions or duplications in chromosomes and important genes. Scientists have identified many disruptions with genes and pathways related to brain functioning and synapses, including SHANK3 and 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 deletion (Genovese et al., 2023), as common risk factors in developing autism, although they alone are not the cause. Additionally, certain genetic disorders like Fragile X syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, and Rett syndrome often occur with autism, though they make up a small percentage of the total cases of autism. Researchers have found over 700 genes associated with ASD, making autism one of the most genetically diverse neurodevelopmental disorders (Genovese et al., 2023). Environmental factors also influence the likelihood of developing ASD, including older parents, premature birth, low birth weight, and certain drugs used during pregnancy like valproic acid. While researchers have identified many risk factors of autism, they have not found any singular determining factor. Further research and understanding of the causes of autism can help with earlier diagnosis and the development of targeted treatments in the future.

Therapies

While there is no cure for ASD, there are many therapies that improve daily functioning and health and facilitate community interaction. Different types of therapies are often combined to enhance overall quality of life. Behavioral therapies, which focus on changing behavior by tracking progress, have the most evidence for mitigating challenges of those withASD and are widely used across the spectrum. The most common type is applied behavioral analysis (ABA), which rewards desired actions and ignores undesired ones to promote certain skills, such as communication. Developmental approaches are also often used to help people with ASD. Speech and language therapy is the most common type of developmental therapy where individuals are taught how to communicate more effectively using words, gestures, technology, or other means. Occupational therapy is another type of developmental approach that promotes independence through the acquisition of motor skills and other important life skills, including eating, bathing, and relating to others. There are also educational therapies such as TEACCH, where teachers adjust course and classroom structures to establish routine and supplement instructions with visual representations. Many additional therapies support the well-being and success of individuals with ASD. Therapies like these described above can help mitigate challenges caused by ASD by focusing on strengthening weaknesses. 

Conclusion

Autism is a complex neurodivergent condition that presents itself differently in every individual. While people with ASD may experience social challenges and engage in repetitive behaviors, they also possess many strengths like honesty and focus. Research suggests that ASD arises from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, although scientists have yet to discover a specific determinant. A variety of therapies can reduce challenges and support daily functioning. Further research and a greater understanding of autism, through recognition of both its challenges and strengths, can reduce stigma, increase support, and improve quality of life for people with autism. 

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, May 16). Treatment and intervention for autism spectrum disorder. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/autism/treatment/index.html

Autism. (n.d.). Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved March 30, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/autism​

Genovese, A., & Butler, M. G. (2023). The Autism Spectrum: Behavioral, Psychiatric and Genetic Associations. Genes, 14(3), 677. https://doi.org/10.3390/genes14030677

Prelock, P. J., & Nelson, N. W. (2012). Language and communication in autism: An integrated view. Pediatric Clinics of North America, 59(1), 129–145. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcl.2011.10.008

Woods, S. E. O., & Estes, A. (2023). Toward a more comprehensive autism assessment: the survey of autistic strengths, skills, and interests. Frontiers in psychiatry, 14, 1264516. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1264516