Digital Autism

Beginning of article

Autism-which affects thought, perception, attention, and human communication-is a tragic and resistant disorder that torments the lives of children, adults, and families in increasing numbers. It is not just one disorder with a well-defined set of signs and symptoms; autism is a broad spectrum of disorders that ranges from mild to severe. In the diagnostic manual used to classify disabilities-the DSM-IV (American Psychiatric Association, 1994)- "autistic disorder" is listed as a category under the heading of "Pervasive Developmental Disorders." A diagnosis of autistic disorder is made when an individual displays 6 or more of 12 signs and symptoms listed across 3 major areas: social interaction, communication, and behavior. When children display similar behaviors but do not meet the criteria for autistic disorder, they may receive a diagnosis of Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS (PDD not otherwise specified).

Some of the signs and symptoms found on checklists for autism spectrum disorder include the following (Autism PDD, 2010):

* Sustained odd play

* Not responsive to verbal cues

* Little or no eye contact

* Abnormal ways of relating to people, objects and events

* Inappropriate attachment to objects

* Lack of social or emotional reciprocity

* Stereotyped and repetitive use of language or idiosyncratic language

* Apparently inflexible adherence to specific, nonfunctional routines or rituals

* Stereotyped and repetitive motor mannerisms

* Persistent preoccupation with parts of objects

* Reduction or disinterest in face-to-face social interaction

Does that sound …