Autism

Autism is a complex neurological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. Once thought to be very rare, autism spectrum disorders are estimated to occur in an many as 1: 150 (one in every 160 people). It occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups and is four times more likely to strike boys than girls. Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with impeding maladaptive behavior, rigid routines and repetitive behaviors. Symptoms can range from very mild to quite severe; That is why diagnosticians refer to a "spectrum" of disability.

Currently, there are no effective means to prevent autism, no fully effective treatments, and no cure. Research indicates, however, that early intervention in an appropriate educational setting can result in significant improvements for many young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. As soon as autism is diagnosed, early intervention instruction should begin. Effective programs focus on developing communication, social, and functional life -cognitive skills.

Autism is one diagnosis within the larger category of Pervasive Developmental Disorders described in the The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision edition (DSM-IV, TR). Autism, along with related, but slightly different disorders of Aspergers Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified, constitute the conditions commonly referred to as the Autism Spectrum Disorders. Two rare disorders, Rett Syndrome (a genetic disorder) and Disintegrative Disorder of Childhood are the other currently recognized pervasive developmental disorders.