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Autism Spectrum Disorder Essay

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is not one specific disorder, but a group of disorders that have similar behavioral characteristic, such as difficulty with communication and socialization. The cause of ASD is still unknown but there are studies that indicate there may a genetic or environmental component. More specifically, ASD can cause limitations in intellectual abilities as well as difficulties with attention and motor coordination. ASD is usually identified during the first three years of life and affects boys at a higher rate than girls (Autism Society). ASD actually occurs at five times a higher rate in boys than in girls, affecting as many as 1 in 54 boys as compared to 1 in 252 girls (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). …show more content…

These impaired motor skills can also cause difficulties in the educational setting (MedlinePlus). Children with ASD may also have challenges with the coordination required for physical activities such as walking, running, and jumping, but can also affect activities such as sitting, since autistic individuals can have difficulties with posture (Autism Speaks). Motor impairments can impact individuals with autism in a number of different ways and can have huge impacts on the basic activities of day to day living. In addition to motor impairments, individuals with ASD often have difficulties with how they respond to sensory information, or specific types of stimuli. This can include a hyper- sensitivity to touch, sound, light, and even smell (Autism Speaks). Individuals with ASD can demonstrate an extreme sensitivity to sensory input and can become confused, anxious, irritable, and fidgety when exposed to certain types of sensory input (Tomchek & Dunn, 2007). Reactions to certain types of sensory input can range from mild to more extreme. For example, one child might perform unusual eye movements, where another child might respond to sensory information by rocking his or her body (Autism Society of America). The use of physical activity has been shown to be beneficial to children with a multitude of developmental and physical impairments. Particularly, children with autism tend

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