Autism is a developmental disability which usually appears in childhood. Autism is more prevalent in boys than girls and all races are equally effected. Autism affects the normal development of the brain in areas which deal with social interaction and communication skills. The disorder makes it difficult for them to communicate with others and relate to the world around them. People with autism may exhibit repeated body movements and have attachments to objects.
Autism varies in severity.
One of the most noticeable signs of autism is impaired social interaction. Children may not respond to their name or to people around them. There may be repetitive movements such as rocking, hair twirling, head banging or hand flapping. Developmental skills like walking and talking are delayed. Children may refer to themselves by their own name instead of saying I or me.