Disturbances in developmental rates may include delays, arrests, or regressions in motor, cognitive, or social behavior. Disturbances in response to sensory stimuli may include overreactivity or underreactivity to visual, auditory, tactile, or olfactory stimuli. Autism First defined by Leo Kanner in 1943. One category of low incidence disabilities. Autism is diagnosed 3 to 4 times more often in males than in females.
Autism is a lifelong disability.
Causes and Types of Autism First thought to be an emotional disorder caused by parental rejection. Now believed to have biological or neurological abnormality or dysfunction. Strongly related to genetic disorder. Structural abnormalities or lesions in brain. Assessment Issues Structured interviews with parents or caregivers, e.g., Autism Diagnostic Interview.