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 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.
Autism is the most common of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders, affecting an estimated 1 in 250 births (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2003). This means that as many as 1.5 million Americans today are believed to have some form of autism. Instances of the disease are rising, and at current rates, the ASA estimates that the prevalence of autism could reach 4 million Americans in the next decade. Autism knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries, and family income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect the chance of autism's occurrence.
There is no known single cause for autism, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function. While no one gene has been identified as causing autism, researchers are searching for irregular segments of genetic code that autistic children may have inherited. It also appears that some children are born with a susceptibility to autism, but researchers have not yet identified a single "trigger" that causes autism to develop.
Whatever the cause, it is clear that children with autism and PDD are born with the disorder or born with the potential to develop it. It is not caused by bad parenting. Autism is not a mental illness. Children with autism are not unruly kids who choose not to behave. Furthermore, no known psychological factors in the development of the child have been shown to cause autism.
Meeting the challenges of autism can be better described as education rather than treatment. And the term "education" is used broadly to include life skills, as well as traditional academic learning. Programs sometimes include several treatment components. For example, one individual's program may consist of speech therapy, social skill development and the use of medication, all within a structured behavior program. Another child's may include social skill development, sensory integration and dietary changes.
Families coping with autism rely on the resources, information, and assistance from the Autism Society of America and its chapters across the nation. The beneficiary of APO's Run To Pitt is the Autism Society of Pittsburgh. Thanks to their efforts, life can be rewarding for a child with autism and all the people who have the privilege of knowing the child. While it isn't always easy, with help from loved ones, an autistic child can find the world an interesting and loving place.
Information provided by the Autism Society of America.
