The so called autism epidemic is likely mostly due to a change in diagnostic criteria that occurred in the 90s which suddenly included much milder cases. The 1 in 68 refers to individuals all over the autism spectrum, from those who need only some supports and accommodations to those who need very substantial support. It is the latter group, especially those who have little spontaneous language (verbal or nonverbal) who are the stereotypical face of autism, but they are the minority of autistics.
Posted on: Mon, 05 Jan 2015 21:35:20 +0000