Some basic questions - Autism Spectrum Message Board

dan1ecu · 08-30-2006, 11:38 AM

Hi, Everybody -

I'm ignorant on the subject of autism, but I'd like to know a little more about it. Based on what I've read about the condition, I'm wondering if one of my friends might be slightly autistic. You see, this person seems to have a hard time connecting with others. It's difficult to "get through" to him. I've often sensed that he was somewhere else when we're together. Intimacy, as far as sharing feelings and being concerned for others, is lacking. He has difficulty with verbal and written communication. E-mails are rarely more than one sentence or one word. He never initiates communication - I have to ask him to e-mail or call me (sometimes several times). I've even gotten annoyed, thinking that he was ignoring me or that he was trying to tell me that he wasn't interested. The only thing is, he is like this with everyone - not just me.

I've always thought of him as extremely shy, but maybe there's more to it. He's got a brother that has been diagnosed as being autistic. Is it hereditary?

Could anyone tell me if what I've described sounds like autism?

Thanks,

Dan

jeffreys mom · 08-30-2006, 12:01 PM

Autism is a neurological disorder that doctors believe has a genetic component although there is a lot of speculation about environmental reasons as well as MMR shots being causes as well.

Autism affects the communication and social aspects of development and often times causes senory integration disorder as well. It is such a wide spectrum and only over the past few years is getting serious recognition in more milder cases.

It is possible that your friend could have some of the traits but it may have gone undiagnosed because he is able to function. He maybe has just been considered "quirky".

It's possible because he has a brother on the spectrum that he may have some traits. If he has friends and a job and gets through life without outside support I think that's wonderful. He is who he is and more power to him !!

The fact that he has an Autistic brother and that you are questioning whether he has it compells me to tell you to be compasionate and patient with his short comings. I'm sure it's not intentional nor something he's aware of. Your concern makes you sound like a good friend

dan1ecu · 08-30-2006, 01:40 PM

Thanks, jeffreys mom, for your comments.

Dan

9CatMom · 08-30-2006, 07:17 PM

Dan,

It sounds as though your friend may have Asperger Syndrome, a high functioning category of autism. Does he have any "special interests?" That his brother is autistic could mean he has some of the traits as well.