Jeannie is the answers.com autism category expert writer. This is a compilation of her articles.
Autistic people tend not to show emotions the way “normal” or “neuro-typical” people do. This leads to the idea they lack empathy, the ability to empathize, to feel empathetic, and in the extreme lack of feelings altogether. This simply is not true; they just do not tend to share their …
When someone is said to “miss the forest for the trees,” it means that they are unable to discern the overall pattern from a mass of detail; to see the big picture, or the broader, or more general meaning of things; they do not get the “gist” of it. This …
There are five main areas that are affected by deficits with executive functioning, the higher-order processing that our brain uses to plan and execute complex tasks. These areas are in inhibitory control, non-working verbal memory, verbal working memory, emotional control, and planning and problem solving. Autistic individuals are affected to …
Having a child with an autism spectrum disorder can present many challenges to parents, and caregivers. One of these challenges is behavior. Research has shown that a child’s ability to communicate may directly impact their behavior. Many Children with Autism Struggle with Language Skills Your child is trying to tell …
Does your child repeat yours or other’s words when spoken to, or repeat television shows, commercials, or sounds they hear in the environment? Verbal children with autism spectrum disorders tend to repeat words and phrases they hear with little understanding of the meaning behind the words—a “condition” known as Echolalia. …
“Theory of Mind,” also known as mind-blindness, is the fundamental understanding that other people have feelings, emotions, and thoughts different than your own. It is the innate ability to recognize facial expressions, and body language, and then interpret, and predict other’s actions based on this knowledge. Children with autism are …
People with autism spectrum disorders struggle to understand and relate to other people. They are thought to lack a “Theory of Mind,” and are said to be “Mind-blind.” Understand what “Theory of Mind” is, how it came about, and how it affects autistic people. What is Theory of Mind? Theory …
Does your autistic or Asperger’s child fight you when you want him/her to shower, or change their clothing? Do they avoid brushing their teeth unless forced to? Is a trip to the barber shop for a haircut a struggle? They may be experiencing sensory difficulties associated with these everyday tasks. …
If you suspect that your child or someone you know is on the autism spectrum, you may be wondering if there is a test for autism. There are no definitive medical tests that can diagnosis an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In order to diagnosis ASD a comprehensive screening and evaluation …
People with Asperger’s often refer to themselves as “Aspies.” Sometimes even seemingly simple everyday tasks can be a source of stress and discomfort to someone with Asperger’s Syndrome (AS). Many people around them do not understand their odd behaviors, or even realize many times that an event or task could …
