How has autism chaneged since the 1930?

Diagnosis

* In the 1930s, autism was not a widely recognized disorder. It was first described in 1943 by Leo Kanner, who called it "early infantile autism."

* Today, autism is diagnosed much more frequently. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 54 children in the United States has autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

* The criteria for diagnosing autism have also changed over time. In the 1930s, autism was diagnosed based on a child's social and emotional difficulties. Today, autism is diagnosed based on a triad of symptoms: social difficulties, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors.

Treatment

* In the 1930s, there was no specific treatment for autism. Children with autism were often institutionalized or sent to special schools.

* Today, there are a number of different treatments for autism, including early intervention, special education, and behavioral therapy.

* The goal of treatment for autism is to help children with autism learn the skills they need to live independent and productive lives.

Prognosis

* In the 1930s, the prognosis for children with autism was poor. Most children with autism were institutionalized for the rest of their lives.

* Today, the prognosis for children with autism is much better. With early intervention and treatment, many children with autism are able to learn the skills they need to live independent and productive lives.

Research

* In the 1930s, there was very little research on autism.

* Today, there is a significant amount of research being conducted on autism. This research is helping us to better understand the causes of autism and to develop more effective treatments.

Awareness

* In the 1930s, autism was a rare and poorly understood disorder.

* Today, autism is a well-known disorder that affects millions of people. Autism awareness has helped to reduce the stigma associated with the disorder and to increase access to diagnosis and treatment.

Autism has changed significantly since the 1930s. Today, autism is more widely recognized and diagnosed, there are more effective treatments available, and the prognosis for children with autism is much better. Autism awareness has also helped to reduce the stigma associated with the disorder and to increase access to diagnosis and treatment.