Autism is a brain development disorder impairing the person s capacity to interact and communicate with others in a normal way. Though we know what it is, it is extraordinarily complex and cannot be comprehended by its mere definition.
The behavior of the autistic individual is characterized by a pattern of repetitive activities which are also stereotype. In other words it is motor behavior seemingly driven, non functional and repetitive. It is abnormal activity and can some times result in self injury.
Autism is just a part of a spectrum of conditions designated as Pervasive Developmental Disorders or PDD. A few of the disorders include Asperger s disorder, Rett s Disorder, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Though these exhibit similar clinical features, their symptoms vary as well as their behavior. Autistic patients exhibit a range of different patterns.
The three major indicators of autism are the three general aspects of impairment of communication repetitive pattern and stereotypic behavior. These problems manifest themselves at a very early age usually before the age of three, interfering with the natural growth of basic skills. Hence they are termed Developmental Disorders . The child will face obstacles in varying degrees. It is accepted that these challenges will prolong throughout their lives.
Other conditions indicative autism but do not need fully exist are impulsive behavior, short attention span, odd fears, and responses to sensory input, anxieties, unexplained abnormal skill and abilities. In spite of great awareness of autism, research has not yet identified its exact cause and nature contrary to the belief that autism is rare along with its similar conditions, it is much more prevalent and the rate of its growth is higher. This may be because medical experts are abiding to diagnose better and there is greater spectrum of associated similar conditions.
According to estimates the range is 1 person to every 500 to 1 person for every 1000. Autism is not partial to any ethnic, racial or social group but boys suffer three times more than girls.