It is believed to be a lifelong developmental disability. Autism is the absence of some normal behavior and a collection of odd behaviors taken to the extreme. Most children with autism look normal and are often unusually attractive. Because of the child's normal physical appearance, the tendency of family and friends is often to suspect the child's behavior is somehow the mother's fault. Autism is not the result of indifferent parenting or poor child management.
Impaired communication is a primary symptom.
People with autism do not understand social exchanges, the clues that are given through body language or voice tone. They do not indicate shared social understanding. Often, they will avoid even looking at you. No one knows precisely what causes autism. Like a fever, it may have many causes.