Autism’s effect on social skills varies based on severity, early support, and type of autism. Classic autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and PDD-NOS have different symptoms and levels of impairment. Asperger’s and PDD-NOS may have milder effects on social skills.
The effect of autism on social skills varies according to the severity of this disorder, as well as the support for autism received early in life. Different types of autism also play a role in autism’s effect on social skills. For example, individuals who do not possess language impairments will still experience social difficulties, but to a much lesser extent than a person with no language skills at all. Additionally, the effect of autism on social skills depends on the presence of other disorders that are sometimes associated with this condition, as is sometimes seen with ADHD and autism.
There are different types of autism, identified in what is called the autism spectrum. The three main types of autism are classic autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOD). The effect of autism on social skills varies within these three subtypes, as the symptoms of autistic behavior present differently in each.
In classic autism, symptoms include lack of eye contact, repetitive behaviors, repetitive movements, poor or complete lack of communication, speech impairment or lack of language development, intellectual deficits, and social withdrawal. These signs are seen in young children within the first few months of life, and the effects of this form of autism on social skills become more apparent as the child matures. Individuals with childhood autism may show some social improvement with autistic behavior therapy, but many with classic autism do not.
Individuals with Asperger’s syndrome will display most of the same symptoms as classic autism, with the exception of having normal language skills and normal brainpower. These individuals also tend to display considerable talent or skill in one area and are often labeled autistic savants. With autism support and behavioral therapy, individuals with this type of autism are often able to function at some level of society, and the effect of autism on social skills, while still evident, tends to be less than that of classic autism.
In PDD-NOS, the effect of autism on social skills may also differ. In this type, an individual may also have fewer symptoms than classic autism and, therefore, social skills may not be as impaired. Individuals with PDD-NOS are considered to have mild autism and may also have fewer intellectual deficits. It is not uncommon to find individuals with adult autism classified as Asperger’s syndrome or PDD-NOS living alone and working in the job market.
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