Autism acceptance emphasizes understanding, support

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – As autism diagnoses continue to rise across the United States, providers at WVU Medicine say the conversation is shifting from awareness to acceptance.

According to national estimates, autism spectrum disorder affects about one-in-31 children. Clinicians say that number reflects both broader diagnostic criteria and improved recognition, allowing more individuals to be identified and supported earlier.

Autism spectrum disorder includes a wide range of differences in communication, behavior, and social interaction. Support needs can vary and may change over time, reinforcing the importance of individualized care.

“Traditionally, we have kind of three levels of autism … but they are defined as levels of support,” David Huss, M.D., pediatric neurologist at the WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s Neurodevelopmental Center, said. “They aren’t permanent levels but represent the fluidity of the spectrum.” 

Autism symptoms can present differently in every child, from those who are nonverbal to others with advanced language skills at an early age. 

“If you’ve met one child with autism, you’ve met one child with autism,” Dr. Huss said. “Everyone has different challenges.”

While autism diagnoses have increased over time, Huss said much of that growth is tied to changes in how the condition is defined and diagnosed, along with improved awareness across populations that were historically underdiagnosed.

Research continues to point to genetics as a primary factor. At the same time, Huss said misinformation persists, particularly around vaccines and other commonly cited causes.

Early signs can include not responding to one’s name, limited shared attention, and delays in speech. While early intervention is important, Huss emphasized that evaluation and support can be helpful at any age and that it is never too late for help. 

Care at WVU Medicine focuses on helping children build skills that support daily life and long-term independence. Treatment plans often include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and applied behavior analysis which focuses on reinforcing positive behaviors.

The Golisano Children’s Neurodevelopmental Center brings multiple specialties together, offering coordinated care in one location. In addition to clinical services, programs are designed to help parents learn strategies they can use at home, where children spend most of their time.

Huss says creating supportive environments extends beyond the clinical setting.

“I think just being understanding … and letting them process what they need to process,” he said.

For more insights from Huss, including common myths, early signs, and what families can expect during an evaluation, listen to the latest episode of the Live Healthy West Virginia podcast, “Autism Acceptance: Listen, Learn, Include,” available on WVU Medicine’s YouTube channel and Spotify.