Identifying Autism: examining the complex spectrum of possibilities

(InvestigateTV) — Identifying autism has become more common than 25 years ago.

The CDC reports in the year 2000, 1 in 150 children had autism spectrum disorder. In 2020, the number was 1 in 36 children. The diagnosis is also more common in boys. For every one girl identified with autism, three boys are as well.

Our investigators take an in-depth look at how the understanding of the condition has developed.

Plus, one family in Nashville shares how this complex diagnosis comes with a wide range of implications.

Read more related stories during National Autism Acceptance Month this April:

How this lemonade stand turned family business gave a young man with autism his chance to inspire others

This Baton Rouge family is using a sweet treat to inspire others diagnosed with autism.

To help spread awareness, one family in Louisiana is serving up a sweet treat and it all started years ago with a little front yard lemonade stand.

Meet Leroy and his LipSmack’n Lemonade business that’s blossomed into something much bigger.

More public spaces adapting to the needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Our investigators show you what those needs are and how a little bit of care goes a long way when it comes to helping them navigate the world.

As more children are diagnosed with the disorder, more public spaces are adapting to their specific needs.

Our investigators take an in-depth look at what those needs are and how a little bit of care goes a long way when it comes to helping them navigate the world.

‘Empowerment in Our Community’: Coffee truck champions inclusion for people with Autism

A mobile coffee truck operated by people with Autism and other intellectual disabilities is inspiring awareness and support for many in their community.

More than 20% of people with a disability were employed in 2023. That is the highest percentage for a year on record.

Our investigators introduce us to a group of baristas who not only excel at their jobs but also love serving coffee with a smile.

See how this team is roasting the grounds for change.

Barber uses unique skill set to give a child on the autism spectrum his first haircut

This Virginia barber is being recognized for her skills, which aren’t a required course in barber school.

A barber in Virginia seems to have the magic touch when cutting the hair of children on the autism spectrum.

This was especially true when it came to a six-year-old boy who hadn’t had his haircut in two years.

Her steady hand and even steadier patience with the child put his mom at ease.

Neurodivergent young adults find confidence through woodworking

For kids who often don’t feel included in the outside world, it’s a chance to grow.

Recognizing neurodiversity increases the chance of a child’s success in learning.

An example of that in action can be found at this school for Neurodiverse students in Evans, Georgia.

Unequal Education: Special education policies differ from state to state

To understand the variations between special education policies across the country, InvestigateTV and the Arnolt Center for Investigative Journalism at Indiana University did an audit, requesting and analyzing the special education eligibility and evaluation policies from all 50 states.

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