Abnormal ways of relating to people, objects, and events. Autism occurs by itself or in association with other disorders that affect the function of the brain, such as viral infections, metabolic disturbances, and epilepsy. It is important to distinguish autism from retardation or mental disorders since diagnostic confusion may result in referral to inappropriate and ineffective treatment techniques. The severe form of the syndrome may include extreme self-injurious, repetitive, highly unusual, and aggressive behavior. Special educational programs using behavioral methods have proved to be the most helpful treatment for persons with autism.
Autism is treatable.
Early diagnosis and intervention are vital to the future development of the child. The essential features of Autistic Disorder are the presence of markedly abnormal or impaired development in social interaction and communication and a markedly restricted repertoire of activity and interests. Manifestations of the disorder vary greatly depending on the developmental level and chronological age of the individual. Autistic disorder is sometimes referred to as early infantile autism, childhood autism, or Kanner's autism. The impairment in reciprocal social interaction is gross and sustained.