One-Minute Self-Test: Could Your Child Have Autism?
Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. Early detection and intervention, particularly between the ages of 3 and 6, can significantly improve outcomes. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant in observing their child's behavior and seek professional evaluation if any abnormalities are noticed. Preventive measures for autism include avoiding drug abuse, viral infections, and excessive stress during early pregnancy.
Autism is characterized by three core features:
- Social Interaction DifficultiesChildren with autism may struggle to engage with peers, form friendships, or show interest in social activities. They often have difficulty understanding and expressing emotions, which can lead to challenges in building relationships.
- Communication ChallengesThis includes both verbal and non-verbal communication issues. Non-verbal challenges may involve limited use of gestures like nodding, waving, or shaking hands. Verbal challenges can manifest as unusual speech patterns, such as abnormal tone, speed, or difficulty understanding or using language appropriately.
- Restricted Interests and Repetitive BehaviorsChildren with autism may show intense focus on specific objects or topics, often unrelated to typical toys or games. They may also engage in repetitive actions, such as lining up objects, repeating words, or fixating on spinning or rotating items.
Self-Assessment Test
Based on your child's behavior over the past month, answer the following questions:
1.Does your child have a favorite object they always carry with them?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
2.Does your child become overly excited and have difficulty calming down?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
3.Does your child avoid hugs or physical contact with others?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
4.Does your child laugh without an obvious reason?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
5.Does your child use gestures to communicate instead of words?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
6.Does your child struggle to communicate while playing with other children?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
7.Is your child uninterested in extracurricular activities?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
8.Does your child refuse to go to school?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
9.Does your child repeat certain actions or words frequently?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
10.Does your child seem unaware of or indifferent to their surroundings?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
11.Does your child enjoy staring at rotating objects?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
12.Does your child avoid eye contact?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
13.Does your child insist on following rigid routines or thinking patterns?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
14.Does your child respond slowly to sounds or speech, often requiring repetition?
A. No
B. Occasionally
C. Often
Scoring and Interpretation
- Scoring:"No" = 0 points"Occasionally" = 1 point"Often" = 2 points
- Results:0-6 points: Few or no signs of autism.7-15 points: Mild symptoms of autism. Close monitoring and consultation with a professional are recommended.16-22 points: Moderate symptoms of autism. Psychological evaluation and intervention are advised.22 points and above: Severe symptoms of autism. Immediate professional assessment and treatment are necessary.
This self-test is not a diagnostic tool but can help identify potential signs of autism. If you have concerns about your child's development, consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing autism and improving quality of life.
