Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. The result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, autism and its associated behaviors have been estimated to occur in as many as 1 in 500 individuals (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1997).
 
Autism is four times more prevalent in boys than girls and knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. Family income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect the chance of autism's occurrence.
 
Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Children and adults with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. The disorder makes it hard for them to communicate with others and relate to the outside world. In some cases, aggressive and/or self-injurious behavior may be present.
 
Persons with autism may exhibit repeated body movements (hand flapping, rocking), unusual responses to people or attachments to objects and resistance to changes in routines. Individuals may also experience sensitivities in the five senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste.
 
Over one half million people in the U.S. today have autism or some form of pervasive developmental disorder. Its prevalence rate makes autism one of the most common developmental disabilities. Yet most of the public, including many professionals in the medical, educational, and vocational fields, are still unaware of how autism affects people and how they can effectively work with individuals with autism.
 
Where can I get more information?
Educating yourself and others about autism is a critical way to assist with the education and development of the individual with autism and to help society understand the nature of this common developmental disorder.
 
To request additional information or to find answers to other questions on autism, please click on any of the links below, and visit our FAQ's section.
 
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Characteristics of Autism.
 
What are people with Autism like?
 
Is there more than one type of Autism?
 
What causes Autism and how is Autism diagnosed?
 
What is the DSM IV, to determine the diagnosis?
 
What are the most effective approaches?
 
Is there a cure and what is the prognosis

The 14 Signs Of Autism

Are you wondering whether a child you know may have Autism or Asperger's Syndrome? Take the "Mini Autism Quiz".
 
The Autism Society of America has put together some informational packages on a variety of Autism-related topics.