Autism / Autism Spectrum Support Group
Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder which manifests itself in markedly abnormal social interaction, communication ability, patterns of interests, and patterns of behavior. Although the specific etiology of autism is unknown, many researchers suspect that autism results from genetically mediated vulnerabilities to environmental triggers.
Being a parent of an autistic child has been such a challenge. The dreams for your child seem gone - or at least for me.........Am I more sad or is my son more sad is the question. But then, I see how sad it is for an 8 year old to not have friends. It is heartbreaking. Sometimes, it is too much too bear, esp. when you have (like I do) a husband who is so out of touch and antisocial. I think he has asperger's. I often feel angry at my daughter, who is 4, who makes friends so easily, so socially aware... Anyway, just venting......
Every kid is different, but don't give up. Sometimes autistic kids just develop much later than other kids and eventually they DO have a social life. It may not look like your social life or mine, exactly, but still it is a social life. :-)
I am hoping it will get better. As for your daughter, I'm thrilled I don't have the same problem with the older one. She has a small group of close friends and with some of those out there that is fine with me!
Hugs