Other causes such as the effect of vaccinations are also being investigated. Bruno Bettelhiem and Niko Tinbergen both wrote books which subscribed to these theories, but with the increase of publications in autism these books are not recommended. For current theories please refer to our suggested reading section. Autism is sometimes associated with other disorders which include Fragile X, tuberous sclerosis, Rett's Syndrome and epilepsy. The knowledge that their child has autism can have a significant effect on parents.
Parents often react to the diagnosis with shock, grief, anger and guilt.
All parents have differing reactions and need to be listened to and supported. For the family, the upbringing of the child with autism places enormous pressure and strain on the parents, brothers and sisters. Social activities and everyday outings can be extremely difficult. One of the most distressing characteristics for parents is that their child with autism may not respond in the usual way to affection, and therefore may have difficulty forming social relationships.