what is autism?
Autism is considered a complex developmental brain disorder characterized by impairments in social functioning, language functioning, and repetitive/obsessive behavior and restricted interests. Autistic Disorder is one of five Pervasive Developmental Disorders, which include Asperger's Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). Together they are often referred to as the “Autism Spectrum Disorders” or ASDs.
It is estimated that 1 in 110 children is diagnosed with autism. An estimated 1.5 million Americans currently live with autism – a number that may grow to 4 million Americans within the next decade. Statistics indicate that the prevalence rate of autism is growing 10 to 17 percent every year. Autism knows no racial, ethnic or socioeconomic boundaries and is prevalent in countries around the world. Autism is diagnosed four times more often in boys than girls; 1 in every 70 boys is currently diagnosed with autism in the United States.
The cause of autism is unknown. Current research indicates that there are probably multiple causes, just as there are multiple symptom combinations and severity levels in autism. Some causes may be purely genetic, some due to genetic predisposition in combination with environmental triggers, and some that are purely due to environmental exposure. Researchers are investigating chemical agents and infectious diseases in addition to other variables. They are also considering how damage to the human immune system and atypical early neurological development impact behavior and learning.
More than four decades of research strongly supports the benefits of early and intensive behavior therapy on the learning and behavior of children with autism. Please see “What is ABA?” for additional information on treatment.
For more information on autism, diagnosis, treatment, research and other related issues, please visit our Suggested Reading and Useful Links sections on this site.
