Autism Definition
Autism is a developmental problem which is very complex and has varying degrees of severity. It occurs as a result of a neurological disorder and usually appears during the preschool years. Autism causes severe deficits in language acquisition and the ability to communicate appropriately. Also, it impairs social interaction significantly. Autism is not curable, but it is treatable.
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What is a Developmental Disorder?
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Autism is described as a pervasive development disorder (PPD). PPD is a neurological disorder that results in both pervasive and severe impairments in multiple developmental areas. Fine and gross motor skills development is often affected as well.
Who has Autism?
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According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 150 individuals have some degree of autism. Autism affects boys four times more often than girls.
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Effects
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Autism effects the normal development of language and social skills. Individuals with autism are delayed in language skills and will usually have difficulty understanding figurative language. In addition, they will have trouble understanding and responding to social cues.
Treatments
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Most autistic individuals will require some degree of speech and language therapy as well as behavioral therapy. Some will also need occupational therapy to address delayed fine and gross motor skills. Some will also need medications to help deal with depression and anxiety which sometimes accompanies autism.
Outlook
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The outlook varies depending on the severity of the disorder. The most highly functioning autistic individuals may be able to live independently and keep a regular job, while other may need to live at home with family members indefinitely. Still others may live in group homes and the most severe may require institutionalization when no family is able to adequately care for them.
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