Today, Asperger's syndrome is a milder form of autism which consists of impairments of fine and gross motor skills. During Kanners and Aspergers time, autism was initially seen as a subtype of childhood schizophrenia. Today they are clearly known to be seperate. Symptoms Symptoms of autism include social isolation, repetitious behavior, and sometimes exceptional skills. Social isolation includes no eye contact.
Exceptional skills means that the child is gifted in a certain activity.
Causes There are many theories, but the cause of autism is not known. Kanner thought the cause of autism was genetic. Many experts do agree with this theory. Also, complications during conception could lead to autism. In addition, infections to the central nervous system of a fetus could lead to autism.