Final answer:
Autism Spectrum Disorder is generally identified in children by the age of 2 or 3 years, but signs often appear before the child's second birthday. The prevalence of ASD has increased, and current estimates indicate about 1 in 54 children are affected. Variability in symptoms is typical, and while some individuals with ASD face significant challenges, others may lead highly functional lives.
Step-by-step explanation:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is typically identified in children by the age of 2 or 3 years, although a diagnosis can sometimes be made earlier, as developmental delays become apparent. While the timing of symptom onset can vary, most children show signs of developmental differences or delays before their second birthday.
ASD is known to affect communication and behavior, with individuals displaying a range of symptoms that can include difficulties with social interactions, nonverbal communication challenges, and engaging in repetitive behaviors. The severity of ASD varies widely among individuals. Some individuals may have co-occurring conditions such as epilepsy or intellectual disability, while others may have robust language skills and high functionality. Estimates suggest a prevalence of ASD is 1 in 54 children, with a notable increase in the rate of diagnosis over the past few decades, partially due to heightened awareness and improved diagnostic criteria.
Because ASD presents a wide spectrum of symptoms, individuals' experiences can differ dramatically. Despite the challenges, many with ASD and their families advocate for recognition of diversity in neurological processing, emphasizing a perspective that differences in mind and behavior patterns are part of human variation.