They behave inappropriately, often repeating behaviors over long periods. For example, some children bang their heads, rock, or spin objects. The impairments range from mild to severe. Children with autistic disorder may have a very limited awareness of others and are at increased risk for other mental disorders. Studies suggest that autism spectrum disorder affects 7 to 14 of every 10,000 children.
Schizophrenia can be a devastating mental disorder.
Other symptoms include delusional or disordered thoughts and an inability to experience pleasure. Schizophrenia is even more rare than autism in children under 12, but occurs in about 3 out of every 1000 adolescents. The team strives to meet the unique needs of each young person and his or her family in or near their home. These services should also address and respect the culture and ethnicity of the people they serve. A child or adolescent in need of treatment or services and his or her family may need a plan of care based on the severity and duration of symptoms.