I found a similar dearth of information and research at the 1993 Society for Neurosciences annual meeting. Clinically Neglected For several years, I pondered why there was such a lack of scientific interest in this disorder. Clinically, autism is a far from trivial disorder. In fact, it is fair to say that it is every bit as devastating as the worst of the psychiatric diseases. It strikes children between the ages of 12 and 36 months-sometimes manifesting with a sudden and rapid disappearance of early language acquisition.
Socials skills are significantly impaired even in the highest functioning individuals with autism.
Stereotypic movements are common. Severe sensory integration problems are well described in books written by some of the highest functioning autistic individuals. The most severe behavioral problems present routinely. Almost all of the routine aspects of life, including eating, sleeping and fundamental social awareness, can never be taken for granted. Some families with autistic members become housebound because the affected family member's behaviors preclude going out together in public.