What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
What is autism?
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world around them. It's called a "spectrum" because no two autistic people are alike – some children are highly verbal and social, others communicate in different ways, and every child has their own unique mix of strengths and support needs. Autism isn't something to fix or cure – it's a different way of thinking and experiencing the world, and with the right support, children with autism can build meaningful skills, deepen relationships, and thrive at home, at school, and life beyond.
How Common Is Autism?
Autism is more common than most people realize. According to the CDC's most recent surveillance data (2022 data, released 2025), about 1 in 31 8-year-olds in the U.S. is identified with autism spectrum disorder – up from 1 in 36 just two years earlier. Boys are diagnosed roughly 3 to 4 times more often than girls, though autism in girls and women are still widely underdiagnosed because it can present differently.
This rise may note necessarily mean autism itself is becoming more common so much as our ability to recognize and diagnose it is improving – better screening tools, broader diagnostic criteria, and greater awareness among parents, teachers, and pediatricians may all play a role. Whatever the reason, one thing is clear: if your family is navigating an autism diagnosis, you are far from alone.
Signs of Autism
Every child develops at their own pace, and autism looks different from one child to the next. That said, there are some common signs parents and pediatricians look for:
- Limited or no eye contact
- Does not respond to name by 12 months
- Few or no gestures like pointing or waving
- Rarely imitates sounds, expressions, or play
- No words by 16 months, or no meaningful phrases by 24 months
- Repeats words or phrases without clear context (echolalia)
- Prefers playing alone, or lines up toys rather than engaging in pretend play
- Strong resistance to changes in routine
- Repetitive movements such as flapping, rocking, or spinning
- Over-sensitivity or under-sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, or smells
- Limited interest in other children or peers
Every child is different, and having a few of these traits doesn't automatically mean a child is autistic. But if several of these signs are showing up together, it's worth talking to your pediatrician about a developmental screening.
How Is Autism Diagnosed?
Autism is diagnosed through a comprehensive developmental evaluation, typically involving:
- Developmental screenings – Your pediatrician may use a screening tool at well-child visits (often around 18 and 24 months) to flag whether a fuller evaluation is warranted.
- Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation – A licensed specialist (developmental pediatrician, psychologist, or neurologist) observes the child directly, talks with parents about developmental history, and uses standardized assessment tools to reach a diagnosis.
On average, many families may wait six months to a year for a diagnostic evaluation – one of the biggest barriers to early intervention. At Behavior Frontiers, we partner with a network of diagnosticians so those who are committed to starting ABA therapy following a diagnosis, can access evaluations quicker, in as little as 4 weeks. Spend less time waiting and more time getting your child the support they need.
How ABA Therapy Helps
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the most thoroughly researched, evidence-based therapy for autism spectrum disorder. It's grounded in understanding how a child learns and what motivates them, then using that insight to build skills in communication, social interaction, self-regulation, and daily living – all while reducing behaviors that get in the way of a child's growth or safety.
At Behavior Frontiers, ABA therapy is personalized, data-backed, comprehensive, and tracked and measured in real time so that we can focus on what matters most: your child. Ready to get started with ABA therapy? Connect with us today.
FAQs
Yes, autism is legally recognized as a disability in the U.S. under laws like the ADA and IDEA, which means children and adults with autism are entitled to certain accommodations and services.
No, it’s important to remember that autism isn't an illness, so there's nothing to "cure." It's a neurological difference in which an individual sees the world a bit differently than their neurotypical peers. Autism care, like ABA therapy doesn't aim to eliminate autism; it helps build communication, social, and independence skills so each person can thrive in their own, unique way.
Autism can be reliably diagnosed as early as 18 to 24 months, though some parents notice autism signs earlier, and some children aren't diagnosed until later. It’s important to remember that earlier diagnosis means earlier access to intervention, which research consistently links to stronger long-term outcomes.
Autism primarily affects social communication and often involves repetitive behaviors or intense interests, while ADHD centers on attention regulation, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. The two frequently co-occur and some traits, like difficulty with transitions, may look similar on the surface. If you have any questions about your child’s development, talk to your pediatrician.
Most insurance plans cover ABA therapy as a medically necessary service. We're in-network with 125+ providers, including most major commercial and Medicaid plans. Contact your insurance plan to learn more about specific plan information, including coverage, co-pays, and deductibles.
