How is autism diagnosed?

WELL, IF YOU WANT TO KNOW IF THE BABY IS THEN IT IS ALL NECESSARY... IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THEY FIND OUT NOW BECAUSE WITH ALL THE MEDICAL RESEARCH THEY CAN HELP THE BABIES ALOT MORE NOW THEN BEFORE,,, ALTHOUGH I THOUGHT THEY COULDNT TELL UNTILL THE CHILD WAS 3 OR 4 BECAUSE SOME CHILDREN DEVELOP LATER THAN OTHERS

I don't really know, but I was just reading through a discussion under General Parenting on autisim. You should go there and read through some of the answers some of those mommy's are going through the same thing. GL

I hate to say that too many things are being categorized as "autism". Socializing problems, auditory/overstimulation problems or motor problems and all of a sudden they have autism. It's a terrible diagnosis to put on a kid if it's NOT what they have. It's the new ADHD....."let's diagnose and drug them up and put them in special school". My nephew has Aspergers and I am glad he was diagnosed and started getting treatment 13 years ago....but not every child that walks on their toes has Autism. I would question a lot and read up on it all.

15 months sounds so early to be judging at this point, but maybe they know what they are talking about. I think the answer to your question is in your heart. Either way he is still going to be your beautiful bright son. I wish you guys well and happiness ;)

If the doctor is suggesting he be evaluated at this early age, I would say it will only benefit your toddler. Early intervention is key...the earlier problems are found and help is given, the better the outcome in the long run.

I have two who are being evaluated for possibly being on the spectrum. If you want to know for sure if there is a problem with him...yes, it is all necessary. The more they test, the more they work with him, the more accurate the diagnosis (if one is given) and the more you can be sure they're not just jumping to conclusions to slap a label on him. You can stop the evaluations and tests, sure. It's your choice. But if he's showing some signs (which he obviously is or the doctor wouldn't have recommended he go through all of this.

As for Autism being the "new ADHD"..bull. Both things are very real...and those who have to live with it every damn day know it's true.

My 2 year old is currently in the process as well. I think it is necessary. Not only that, but it will let you know what isn't wrong with them too! For example, my daughter's hearing test were fine, but she still doesn't respond to loud sounds or even her name. Now we have to figure out why. We have been watching her for awhile because she was early, and she has a lot of different issues. So, our main goal is to find out what it is, and what it isn't.

Thanks mommies! I appreciate the answers. I just wanted to be sure it wasn't just our doctor that tests for everything. I do want to know what (if anything) is wrong. Autism is not a label slapped on some kids. It is a very real disorder.