moved from one side of
the room to another may scream. Moving objects such
as a fan hold great fascination, and the child may
form an unusual attachment to odd objects such as a
paper, rubberband or brick.
Another feature of autism is
a tendency toward repetitive activities of a restrictive range.
Spinning and rhythmic body movements such as arm flapping may
occur. High functioning autistic children may repeat television
commercials or indulge in complex bedtime rituals.
Parents who
suspect autism in their child should ask their family doctor or
pediatrician to refer them to a child and adolescent
psychiatrist, who can accurately diagnose the autism and the
degree of severity, and determine the appropriate educational
measures. Autism is a disease; autistic children may have a
serious lifelong disability. However, with appropriate treatment
and training, some autistic children can develop certain aspects
of independence in their lives. Parents should support their
autistic children in developing those skills that use their
strengths so they will feel good about themselves.
In addition to working with the autistic child, the child and
adolescent psychiatrist can help the family resolve stress--for
example, a feeling among the siblings that they are being
neglected in favor of the autistic child, or embarrassment about
bringing their friends home. The child and adolescent
psychiatrist can help parents with the emotional problems that
may arise as a result of living with an autistic child and also
help them provide the best possible nurturing and learning
environment for the child.
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