Originally Posted by crowdrocka
As other posters have implied autism is a diagnosis that presents itself on a very wide spectrum. Males are 4 times more likely than females to be diagnosed with this disorder. Some of the most debilitating outcomes of the diagnosis include motor, and language learning difficulties. On the severe end of the spectrum, a person diagnosed with autism may have difficulty engaging in daily self care activities (i.e. bathing, dressing, feeding, etc.) requiring assistance to perform such tasks. There seems to be a correlation, that a person diagnosed with autism, will also have some sensory processing difficulties as well, making learning more difficult compared to the norm, thus setting obstacles in daily life, learning, and establishing strong social relationships. On the end of the spectrum (i.e Aspergers/high functioning), individuals diagnosed with mildly, or high functioning autism, at first glance typically look normal. Understanding social situations, and "acting" accordingly, is one the biggest challenges for people diagnosed with high functioning autism. A person with autism does not register and process socials cues such as facial features, and body gestures, as the norm would.
Unfortunately this is just the tip of the iceberg. The etiology of autism is unknown. There's speculation that it may be due to the ecological containments, and genetic implications (*a study in Europe suggests fathers over the age of 40 are more likely to have a child with austim). There is no "cure". Currently, it is believed early intervention, with a combination of stimulation, play, occupational, physical, speech and language therapy is the most effective treatment method. Often, an overlooked component, is the family dynamic; helping families, and caretakers truly understand and cope with the challenges and realities of having a child with autism.
Suggesting Peter Eastgate as mildly autistic is interesting. It can explain his rather stoic response when he won the ME as well as his usual demeanor at the table. However, if I'm not mistaken, I did see him crack a smile or two during the NBC heads up. If he is autistic, I would like to know what his personal challenges have been throughout his life, and how he has learned how to cope with them.
I apologize for this rant. I just find it personally disheartening when people jest about others with mental and social disorders.
