Autism

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Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD),^[a] is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences or difficulties in social communication and interaction, a preference for predictability and routine, sensory processing differences, focused interests, and repetitive behaviors, which may include stimming.^[4] Formal diagnosis requires significant challenges in multiple domains of life, with characteristics that are atypical or more pronounced than expected for one's age and sociocultural context.^[5][6][7][8] Motor coordination difficulties are common but not required for diagnosis. Autism is a spectrum disorder, resulting in wide variations in presentation and support needs, such as that between speaking and non-speaking populations.^{[9][10][5][6][11]}

Increased estimates of autism prevalence since the 1990s are primarily attributed to broader criteria and increased awareness, although a true rise in prevalence is possible.^[12][13] The World Health Organization estimates about 1 in 100 children were diagnosed between 2012 and 2021, noting an increasing trend.^[b][2][3] This rise has fueled anti-vaccine activists' disproven claim that vaccines cause autism.^[14] While precise causes are mostly unknown, research shows that autism is highly heritable and polygenic. Environmental factors play a relatively small role, mainly prenatally.^[15][16][17] Boys are diagnosed significantly more often than girls.^[18] Autism frequently co-occurs with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), epilepsy, and intellectual disability.^[19][20][21]

There is no known cure for autism, and there are advocates who oppose pursuing one.^[22][23][24] Interventions such as applied behavior analysis, speech therapy, and occupational therapy can help increase self-care, social, and language skills.^[25][26] Reducing environmental and social barriers enables autistic people to participate more fully in education, employment, and other aspects of life.^[27][28][29] Medications can alleviate some co-occurring problems.^[30][31]

The view of autism as a disorder has been challenged by the neurodiversity paradigm, which frames autistic traits as a healthy variation of the human condition.^[32] This view is supported by the autism rights movement, whose paradigm researchers have recently increasingly adopted.^[33][34] The neurodiversity framework has sparked significant debate and controversy among autistic people, advocacy groups, healthcare providers, and charities.^[35][36]

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