Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comes in a few types. One of them is atypical autism. Milder or moderate symptoms set it apart from a common disorder. This type of ASD is referred to as a pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). It does not fit the criteria for classic autism.
This type of disorder was originally diagnosed in children who had some symptoms of autism. However, as the diagnostic methods have evolved, these specific terms have been phased out as the definition of this type of ASD.
Atypical Autism: Symptoms
Poor communication and socialization skills characterize the disorder. Sometimes, this can include Asperger’s or Rett’s syndrome. It also can be a childhood disintegrative disorder. The symptoms vary a lot. They are different for different people. However, some common of them include:
- Social difficulties. People with this disorder may have problems with social interactions and making friends.
- Communication difficulties. These difficulties refer to verbal and nonverbal communication.
- Repetitive behaviors: For instance, a patient can rock back and forth or flap their hands
- Sensory issues: People with ASD may react inadequately to certain sounds or smells.
- Fear of change: People may suffer from changes in routine or unexpected events.
While some people show signs of ASD within the first few months of life, others don’t show them until much later.
What Does Differ Atypical Autism from Classic Autism
Atypical autism is similar to classic disorder. However, there are some key differences between them. One of the main differences is milder symptoms than those people may have with classic ASD.
For instance, atypical autists may have problems with social interactions. At the same time, they may not show the signs of repetitive behaviors. Their sensory sensitivities are not the same as those with classic ASD. Frequently, people with atypical autism can function better in daily life than those with classic ASD.
While these two types of ASD are different, they still have many in common. Both types can benefit from early diagnosis and intervention. In both cases, a personalized treatment plan should be tailored to meet the patient’s needs.
Diagnosis of Atypical Autism
A diagnosis of this disorder can be quite challenging. It’s a very broad category that includes diverse symptoms. However, the process usually involves an evaluation by a team of specialists, including a psychiatrist, therapist, and psychologist.
The updated Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-4) was published in 1994. Autism was divided into five categories. Autistic disorder, PDD-NOS, and Asperger syndrome were among them.
The DSM-4 recommendations required that a child had to meet the following diagnostic criteria to diagnose ASD:
- Difficulties in social interaction
- Communication difficulties
- Repetitive behaviors
However, a PDD-NOS required that a child only had to meet two criteria, including impairments in social interactions. At that time, PDD-NOS was considered to be a subthreshold of ASD. This classification suggested a milder form of autism: atypical autism.
Autism and Poker
While being autistic brings some difficulties, there is an advantage. Being autistic can help you make money playing poker. We can explain it.
Special Interest
Autistic people often have special interests. If one of these is poker, they can easily learn poker strategy and hone their skills. Their strong passion allows them to work on the game more than typical players.
Lonely Grinding
A job with lots of social interaction can be very tough for autistic people. Instead, they prefer to sit in front of a PC unattended. That’s where poker steps in. Autistic people don’t have a problem grinding alone. Playing more poker means making more money for them.
Poker Face
Autistic people have many different facial expressions. It can be quite tricky for other people to figure out what they mean. It is a huge advantage in poker when your peers can’t read you.
Treatment of Atypical Autism
There is no special cure for atypical autism. Nevertheless, early diagnosis can help improve outcomes. Treatment usually involves speech, behavioral, and occupational therapy. Common approaches look as follows:
- Speech therapy. It improves verbal and nonverbal communication abilities
- Applied behavior analysis. It is a positive reinforcement to develop communication, social, and adaptive skills
- Occupational therapy. It focuses on motor skills and activities of daily living.
- Social skills training. It’s about learning strategies for building relationships and handling social situations
- Cognitive behavioral therapy. The methods of managing anxiety and restrictive behaviors.
- Medications. It is used to reduce symptoms of anxiety and irritability.
Personalized treatment is key. A team of pros works closely with families to provide the required support.
The Impact of Atypical Autism on Daily Life
Atypical autism greatly impacts daily routines. While the symptoms are different for different persons, many people with atypical autism may have problems with communication. These challenges can make their lives difficult. It’s hard for them to manage everyday situations, such as school or work.
Social interactions are especially challenging for people with atypical autism.
They may not understand facial expressions or body language. It is difficult for them to form friendships or maintain relationships. Such difficulties with social interactions may lead to feelings of isolation or loneliness.
Conclusion
Atypical autism is one of the types of ASD. Mild to moderate symptoms set it apart from the common form of the disorder. It can be quite hard to diagnose it. However, early intervention and a personalized treatment plan can help change things for the better. Worried that you or your near and dear may have atypical autism? It is of the essence to seek a qualified diagnosis from a team of specialists in this domain.