I'm a father of four kids, and one in particular has me wondering if they are on the spectrum.

My wife has gone through different literature and suspects this as well.

I'm not overly concerned, but I really want to understand what somebody on the spectrum is feeling on the inside.

Though not necessarily signs of being on the spectrum, these traits are what really define my child: 

-A strong sense of justice

-Quiet, not social except when it is someone the child knows

-Not very emotional, but does not shy from hugs or physical contact.

I know there has to be a lot going on in the child's mind. I really wish I knew what that was.

For those on the spectrum, what does your mind deal with during the day... each day?

well i did write that one article a while back giving an idea of what i was like when i was younger.

to add, i'm also currently in a relationship with someone that has asperger's as i do and surprisingly has a passion for collecting classic video game consoles. after all these years i can't believe it took this long to find the right girl.

I did remember that article. Thank you for submitting it here. I re-read it just now. Thank you for all that incite.

Benjanime wrote :

well i did write that one article a while back giving an idea of what i was like when i was younger.

to add, i'm also currently in a relationship with someone that has asperger's as i do and surprisingly has a passion for collecting classic video game consoles. after all these years i can't believe it took this long to find the right girl.

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I don't talk about it much since I try not to let it define me, but each day is a new challenge. Some days are better than others. The last two are more common with being Autistic. However they can be worked on, it takes a lot of time, but it can be done with baby steps and understanding. Give them oppertunities without forcing them. We tend to look emotionless or indifferent, but we do express it in other ways. If you think they are on the spectrum, I say get them checked out. If you want more information check out the Autism Self Advicosy Network and avoid Autism Speaks. 

I wouldn't worry about putting a lable them. You are who you are. Nothing you can do will change that. I think some use their disability as a crutch and many parents don't allow their kids to grow for fear they will not be able to control them when they are older and worry others will take advantage of them. I disgree. If they are "highly fuctional" I think you just have to work harder to make them suceed in life. Let them make friends, play sports, learn to drive and get a job....... It might be harder for them, but they can do more than you may think.. Of course the severity of it should be taken into account. You may find by the time they are nearing adulthood they will never lead a normal life, but you shouldn't give up and let it be a reason to go easy on them. Some autistic people end up becoming very agressive with age and I think their parents constantly holding them back fuels it. Of course not understanding what they are feeling does too.

harsh disciplines in early childhood can make those on the spectrum aggressive later in life. just look at what chris chandler's first babysitter did to him.

I mean in all fairness to CWC, I think it was more how his parents raised him that contributed to his anger and inability to deal with things like a normal person would. They shielded him from the outside world and never handled his autism properly. He never really developed a grasp of reality or the concept that he isn't some god among men. I also have always theorized that the babysitter story isn't as bad as he and his family make it out to be.

If you are really concerned about this Vaporman, contact a specialist. My parents thought I had aspergers for years. After seeing a psychologist for several sessions she determined I didn't have it. Only testing can tell what is or isn't there.

Benjanime wrote :

harsh disciplines in early childhood can make those on the spectrum aggressive later in life. just look at what chris chandler's first babysitter did to him.

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Hi Vapor! Thank you for sharing and for reaching out. I agree, it might not hurt to get an official diagnosis and some community and/or educational supports. It's great that you and your wife are in tune with your child and are exploring his needs early on. 

In early childhood, delayed language development is the #1 sign of autism spectrum (but not a requirement). Most people on the spectrum have difficulty processing verbal and nonverbal communication with others. Can your son read body language or tell by someone else's expressions how they are feeling? 

Does he have specialized interests? (this occupies a lot of mental space)

A preference for being alone is another sign as you mentioned. Social interactions don't come naturally and the best thing to do is to have a buddy to model their behavior. As his dad, you seem him at his best and most confident. It can be much harder and stressful for him in new social settings. 

Sensory issues (i.e. not liking the feel of certain fabrics, or sensitivity to sound) is another good indicator that usually can't be explained other than autism. 

Thanks to all of you for your incite. My wife is going to be speaking with the child's pediatrician and then we'll go from there. I don't want there to be any feelings of being abnormal, so we're not in any hurry to put on any labels. 

I just watched a documentary The Speed Cubers (about Rubik's Cube competitors) on Netflix in which one of the subjects has autism. It's interesting, and depicts his parents' experience working with his development. Review

@shakin: I watched that! Great little doc.