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Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. Autism is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is a "spectrum disorder" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no known single cause for autism but recent research has indicated that chromosomal abnormality might play a role.
What are the typical signs/symptoms of autism in a child:
- Lack of delay in spoken language
- Repetitive use of language and or / motor mannerisms (e.g., hand flapping, twirling objects)
- Little or no eye contact
- Lack of interest in peer relationships
- Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
- Persistent fixation on parts of objects
Other Developmental Disabilities:
- Mental Retardation
- Cerebral Palsy
- Epilepsy and other conditions found to be closely related to mental retardation. The disability has to have occurred before the age of 18, been determined to be a substantial handicap and continue throughout that person's life.
Information on autism causes and characteristics provided by Autism Society of America and California Department of Developmental Disabilities
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