Diagnosis & Causes

HOW IS THE DIAGNOSIS MADE? A diagnosis is made through firstly, detailed observation of the behavioural and communication characteristics displayed by an individual; secondly taking a detailed developmental history into account and thirdly by the comparison of these findings to accepted criteria of “normal development”. No medical (i.e., blood, X-ray, fMRI etc) test exists yet that conclusively indicates the presence of Autism. This diagnosis may be made by a medical doctor (such as a psychiatrist, neurologist, paediatrician), or by a multi-disciplinary team of professionals (and may include medical doctors, psychologists, speech-language therapists, occupational therapists, and educational professionals). CAUSES Research into the causes of Autism has, as yet, not established one particular cause that accounts for all instances of Autism. The Association for Autism regards each person with Autism as unique, and as having individual needs. Correspondingly, we recommend a personalised intervention and treatment programme for each person with Autism.