Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), commonly referred to as just Autism, is a neurological

and developmental disorder that affects the way that individuals interact with their physical and

social environment. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders

(DSM-5), to diagnose an individual with ASD, they must display “Difficulty with

communication and interaction with other people, restricted interests and repetitive behaviors,

and symptoms that affect their ability to function in school, work, and other areas of life.”

There are currently only theories as to what may cause Autism. What we do know is that

Autism falls on a spectrum. Some individuals are so high functioning that it is hard to tell

without further examination, and others engage in frequent, intense behaviors that prevent them

from engaging with their social and physical environment entirely. We also know that certain risk

factors could potentially lead to an ASD diagnosis. These factors, according to the NIH, are

“having a sibling with ASD, having certain genetic or chromosomal conditions (such as fragile X

syndrome or tuberous sclerosis), experiencing complications at birth, and being born to older

parents.” A common potentially dangerous misconception is that vaccines cause children to

develop Autism. This belief has no scientific basis on which to stand. The misconception

occurred when a former English doctor, Andrew Wakefield, wrongly and unethically conducted a

study that linked the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine to autism. Further medical

peer-reviewed studies have been released proving that, not only is the premise dangerously

wrong, it’s the complete opposite. According to Autism Speaks, “Analysis of 10 studies

involving more than 1.2 million children reaffirms that vaccines don’t cause autism; MMR shot

may actually decrease risk.”

While we are still trying to determine what specifically causes Autism and possible ways

to cure Autism, there are successful short-term solutions. Using Behavior Modification
techniques administered by a BCBA can drastically change the life of an individual with Autism.

Behavior modification can allow individuals with severe autism to interact with their social and

physical environment in a healthy manner. While it’s not a cure, it’s a major step in helping

individuals with Autism.

References:

American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders

(5th ed., text rev.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787

Autism Speaks. (n.d.). New Meta-analysis confirms: No Association Between Autism and

Vaccines. Autism Speaks.

https://www.autismspeaks.org/science-news/new-meta-analysis-confirms-no-association-

between-autism-and-vaccines

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, December 9). What is autism spectrum

disorder?. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/facts.html

Jonathan D. Quick, M., & Larson, H. (2018, February 28). The vaccine-autism myth started

20 years ago. here’s why it endures today. Time.

https://time.com/5175704/andrew-wakefield-vaccine-autism/

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Autism spectrum disorder. National

Institute of Mental Health.

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd