What are the early signs of autism in young children?
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Early Signs of Autism in Young Children
Diminished Social Interaction and Communication
One of the earliest signs of autism in young children is a noticeable decline in social interaction and communication behaviors. Research indicates that infants who are later diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often show a significant reduction in gaze to faces, shared smiles, and vocalizations to others by 12 months of age1. These behaviors, which are typically present at 6 months, tend to diminish over time in children with ASD, highlighting a developmental trajectory that diverges from typically developing children1.
Reduced Eye Contact and Social Reciprocity
Another early indicator of ASD is reduced eye contact and social reciprocity. Case studies have documented that infants showing early signs of autism often exhibit diminished eye contact and reduced social engagement within the first few months of life2. These early behavioral signs are critical for early identification and intervention, which can significantly improve developmental outcomes2.
Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests
Repetitive behaviors and restricted interests are also common early signs of autism. These behaviors can include repetitive movements and a strong preference for specific activities or objects. Such signs are often reported by parents and can be observed as early as the first year of life6 8. These behaviors are part of the core diagnostic criteria for ASD and are essential for early detection and diagnosis8.
Delayed Social, Communication, and Motor Skills
Delays in social, communication, and motor skills are frequently observed in children who are later diagnosed with ASD. Studies have shown that by 18 months, children with ASD often exhibit delays in these areas, along with increased suspicion of vision and hearing problems9. These developmental delays are significant predictors of ASD and highlight the importance of early screening and assessment9.
Parental Observations and Reporting
Parents often notice early signs of autism before clinicians do. Research has shown that parents are more likely to detect early behavioral signs based on their day-to-day observations compared to clinicians during brief office visits7. This discrepancy underscores the importance of parental input in the early identification process and suggests that parents' observations can be more reliable indicators of ASD7.
Importance of Early Screening and Intervention
Early identification and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes in children with ASD. Studies emphasize the need for very early screening and preemptive intervention to promote optimal developmental trajectories2 10. Early intervention can significantly diminish symptom severity and improve social, communication, and cognitive skills, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for children with ASD and their families2 10.
Conclusion
Early signs of autism in young children include diminished social interaction and communication, reduced eye contact, repetitive behaviors, and developmental delays in social, communication, and motor skills. Parental observations play a critical role in the early detection of these signs. Early screening and intervention are essential for improving developmental outcomes and should be prioritized to ensure timely support for children with ASD.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
A prospective study of the emergence of early behavioral signs of autism.
Behavioral signs of autism emerge over time in infants through diminishment of key social communication behaviors, with more children potentially presenting with a regressive course than previously thought.
Highly CitedCase report: Preemptive intervention for an infant with early signs of autism spectrum disorder during the first year of life
Early identification and intervention for autism spectrum disorder in infants can significantly reduce symptom severity and improve developmental outcomes.
Case ReportThe prodrome of autism: early behavioral and biological signs, regression, peri- and post-natal development and genetics.
Early behavioral and biological signs may indicate the onset of autism, and early intervention studies may help prevent its emergence.
Very Rigorous JournalHighly CitedExploration of caregiver experiences of reported first signs of Autism.
First signs of autism are often recognized in children aged 12-18 months, but barriers to information and support often delay diagnosis due to frustration and under-support.
Observational StudyContinuity of trajectories of autism symptom severity from infancy to childhood.
Early behavioral signs in infants at increased likelihood for ASD can predict later symptom severity, highlighting the need for repeated assessments.
Observational Study
Rigorous JournalAutism spectrum disorder and autistic traits in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children: precursors and early signs.
Early signs of autism spectrum disorder and autistic traits can be identified in the first year of development, with social communication impairments being central.
Observational StudyHighly CitedParent and clinician agreement regarding early behavioral signs in 12‐ and 18‐month‐old infants at‐risk of autism spectrum disorder
Parent-reported symptoms are more accurate in detecting early behavioral signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder in infants at-risk than clinician observations during brief office visits.
Observational StudyVery Rigorous JournalThe warning signs of autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review
This study identified the most common warning signs of autism spectrum disorder in children aged 0 to 6 years, aiding in early diagnosis by healthcare professionals.
Systematic ReviewEarly Signs of Autism in Toddlers: A Follow-Up Study in the Danish National Birth Cohort
Early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in toddlers are unclear and positive predictive values for ASD are below 10%.
Observational StudyRigorous JournalEarly identification of autism spectrum disorders
Early identification of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is crucial for improving children's opportunities for intervention and reducing the burden on concerned parents.
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