[lucyjoy]

What is autism? I know there are various types but I'm only familiar with the really serious form. How is it diagnosed? What happens to these children as adults? I was contacted by someone whose international adoption is disrupting and the child is autisic and non violent. I am clueless as to how to help them and confused as to how they would not have known their was a problem as the child was older when adopted(like I said, I'm clueless). Can someone please educate me or point me to information?

[iamdbytes]

Lucyjoy -

Autism can be 1,001 things. Every child with autism is different - no two alike. Some children fit the stereo-typical profile of being non-verbal, don't like to be touched, no eye contact, etc. Some children won't make eye contact, but don't mind being touched. I think it's almost been easier when they came up with the category of Autistic Spectrum since it is more apt to cover the wide range of symptoms and variations of them. My son - for example is EXTREMELY verbal - to a point of never shutting up. He loves to hang on me - and does give some eye contact. But he has huge sensory issues with highlights of being bothered by sounds, smell, and heights. He lacks alot of social understanding and struggles alot in school. There is a ton of information on autism online and in books - email me - or have your friends email me and maybe I can help them out - dbytes_ne@hotmail.com

My son is also adopted and I know where they are coming from!

Michelle

[lucyjoy]

Thanks. I did do some online research and it only confused me more because there was so much and it was so varied. How can they tell certain types of this disorder from other disorders?
I did get a little more info from the parents. I just think they're done and not willing to go any further. I think this child is a little more toward the serious end. I appreciate your information and willingness to help out.