Autism
A Resource for Families
What is Autism?
Autism is a general term that encompasses many Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD's) and Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD's). Autism is a complex developmental brain disorder that effects everything from speech to personality. There are different levels of severity, ranging from very high functioning (or very close to if not surpassing "normal" functioning and intelligence levels) to very low (or very well below the normal level of functioning and intelligence). Symptoms generally persist throughout life. A person with a mild case may function very well on their own and may just seem quirky, however, a person with a severe case may need to be cared for all their life. Early diagnossi and intervention can make a world of difference.
Autism effects the way a person sees the world and usually tends to make social interaction and communication difficult. Sometimes repetative behaviors are exhibited. More often than not, however, children with Autism tend to vary as much from individual to individual as one could imagine. The Autism Speaks website offers this expression "If you know one person with autism, then you know one person with autism."
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - IVTR lists the criteria needed for an Autism diagnosis.
What is the cause of Autism?
No one knows for sure a specific cause for Autism, and there are most likely multiple causes. Most of todays research points toward a biological cause, meaning that it is most likely linked to the immune system, in utero development, and genetic factors. Under speculation are environmental factors, such as food additives, chemical exposure, and the timing of exposure to these factors.
How common is Autism?
1 in 150 children will be diagnosed with Autism and this figure is expected to increase by 10-17 percent annually. This makes Autism more common than childhood cancers, juvenile diabetes, and pediatric AIDS put together. Boys are diagnosed much more frequently than girls, with a figure of 1 in 94.
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