Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neuro-developmental condition which affects how people see, hear, feel and respond to the world around them. To receive a diagnosis of Autism, clear difficulties with social interaction and social communication need to be present, as well as, restricted repetitive patterns of behaviour and interests.   It is a lifelong condition and affects a person's ease and ability in social situations. 

 

You may find the person you suspect as having Autism has some particular strengths like an ability to focus on one thing for a long period of time or that they are very honest. 

 

More than 1 in 100 people in the UK have a diagnosis of Autism. Families will often notice that looking back there were differences in early development, but these differences are not always a problem. You may want to have an assessment if you are searching for an answer for these differences.