4.+Disability+Research


 * Autism ** is a behaviorally defined developmental disorder that begins in early childhood. Most people with autism have problems using language, forming relationships, and appropriately interpreting and responding to the external world around them. Autism is a complex developmental disorder that has the following three defining features:
 * 1) Problems with social interactions
 * 2) Impaired verbal and nonverbal communication
 * 3) A pattern of repetitive behavior with narrow, restricted interests
 * Symptoms- ** can be broken down into behavior, language, and social skills. Every case of Autism is different so there aren't definite signs or symptoms. Some symptoms of autism include:
 * Developmental delays
 * Resists physical contact (poor eye contact etc..)
 * Problems developing non-verbal communication
 * Failure to establish friendships and close relationships
 * Lack of interest in sharing emotions or feelings
 * Lack of empathy
 * Delay in learning to talk (past the usual age)
 * Problems taking steps to start conversations (shyness)
 * Repetitive use of language (often a specific set of words)
 * Difficulty understanding listener’s perspective and focusing
 * An unusual focus on pieces and/or extreme attachment to something
 * Preoccupation with certain topics or situations
 * A need for routine and specific guidelines
 * Repetitive actions and behaviors
 * Unaware of surroundings and other's feelings
 * Fails to responds to name
 * Becomes disturbed or irritated at the slightest change of their routines
 * May be easily fascinated by new items or parts of an object.
 * Causes- ** Autism affects about 1 in every 150 kids, but no one knows what causes it. Some scientists think that some kids might be more likely to get autism because it or similar disorders run in their families. Knowing the exact cause of autism is hard because the human brain is very complicated.
 * Treatment- ** There is no cure for autism, nor is there a standard therapy that works for all people with autism. A number of different treatment approaches have evolved over time as we have learned more about autism.
 * Different approaches work for different people. Accepted interventions may work for some and not for others.
 * Different professionals may disagree about what is the best approach for the child.


 * Living With Autism- ** Some kids with mild autism will grow up and be able to live on their own. Those with more serious problems will always need some kind of help. But all kids with autism have brighter futures when they have the support and understanding of doctors, teachers, caregivers, parents, brothers, sisters, and friends