Autism affects approximately five in every 10,000 children. It is a biological brain disorder that is often diagnosed within the first two and a half years of life. Children with autism are usually normal in appearance despite the handicapping disorder. Their behavior, though, is what identifies the condition. They often stare at seemingly nothing for up to hours, show no interest in other people and take part in repetitive activities.
Aggression can become a serious problem for children with autism.
Common behaviors include biting, kicking, scratching and poking their own eyes or hurting themselves in other ways. People with autism are often gifted in areas such as music or math. Currently, there is no treatment proven to overcome autism but, according to the Autism Research Institute, a growing number of children with autism have been able to attend school with normal children and live more independently. There are also a number of different studies currently ongoing to find the cause and help treat people with autism. One medication under study is thought to be able to help people with autism overcome or calm their aggressive behavior.