Is ADHD a Form of Autism?

Is ADHD a form of autism? This is the question many parents and professionals are facing. Fortunately, there is new research demonstrating that it is not. A new study analyzing medical data from almost two million people born in Sweden found a significant connection between autism and ADHD. Identical twins and cousins of those with autism were at the highest risk. This is because they share the same genetic make-up but are likely to have less exposure to the same early environmental factors.

Asperger’s Syndrome

Asperger’s is a highly varied disorder of social interaction. Children with Asperger’s syndrome often exhibit highly unusual interests or have special creative abilities. These kids, however, have difficulties forming relationships with other people and often struggle to communicate. They may also struggle to pick up social cues, which can have consequences for their schoolwork and personal lives. Although Asperger’s is no longer a formally recognized diagnosis, it is often referred to as “high-functioning autism.”

There is no specific test for Asperger’s syndrome, although a child with social skills delays can benefit from time alone or physical therapy. Some children may benefit from breathing techniques or soothing music, and occupational therapy can teach them how to dress and interact with others. Children may also need support in school, which is why regular meetings with teachers are important. A professional can also use motivational strategies to encourage appropriate behavior and encourage children to work on their social skills.

The most important part of diagnosing Asperger’s Syndrome is getting proper treatment. Because of the symptoms and overlapping nature of both genders, doctors may mistake the disorder for other medical conditions. To make things worse, a child with Asperger’s syndrome may also have a co-occurring psychotic disorder. In many cases, these two disorders are not related, but can be co-existing.

Asperger’s

Once considered a distinct condition, Asperger’s syndrome is now part of the autism spectrum. Despite this, many people still identify themselves as “Aspies.” The condition was originally classified as a social skill problem, but it is now classified as a part of autism. People with Asperger’s syndrome often exhibit obsessive focus and repetitive behavior. While the disorder is often associated with high-functioning autism, there are some differences that distinguish it from the other two disorders.

Regardless of the cause of your child’s delays, you can seek help. Your healthcare provider can recommend a developmental pediatrician or a psychologist to help your child. There is no definite test for Asperger’s syndrome, but professionals may use a combination of questionnaires and interviews to diagnose the disorder. They may also perform physical tests to rule out physical disorders. For more information, visit Asperger’s syndrome.

Occupational therapists help children with Asperger’s syndrome develop fine motor skills and deal with sensory issues. Children with Asperger’s syndrome may be sensitive to certain sensory experiences, such as sand, water, and modeling clay. They may also have trouble handling different kinds of food. Occupational therapists work with children to improve pre-writing hand strength and learn to feed themselves.

ADHD

The debate continues over whether ADHD is a form of autism. Many believe it is, but Bignell argues that the distinctions between the two conditions are artificial and may misrepresent the complexity of the conditions. During the ADHD Foundation’s Conference in November, Bignell argued that ADHD and autism are two different conditions that may share genetic susceptibility. But the distinctions between the two are not definitive, and further studies are needed.

ADHD is not an uncommon condition. While certain behavioral characteristics are expected as a child gets older, the brain does not develop at the same rate in every person. Because of this, certain cognitive functions may be delayed in a child who is ten years old. The brain does not develop at the same rate in all people, and a child at ten may have the abilities of an eight-year-old. This is not normal development, and the child should not be forced to grow at a faster rate than the rest of their peers.

The shared-roots theory is based on studies of twins and families. Children of parents who have ADHD are more likely to develop the disorder, as are their firstborn children. The two conditions may occur at the same time, but early diagnosis is important. If an individual develops ADHD at an early age, the chances of a child developing autism are lower. The earlier treatment starts, the better the outcome will be for the child.

Benjamin Guffoggio