What is Autism?spacer

Autism Spectrum Disorders are mild to severe developmental disorders that affect communication and behavior. Today, one of every 110 children born is diagnosed with autism – one in 70 boys. More children will be diagnosed this year … than with AIDS, diabetes, and cancer combined. Autism is the fastest growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.

Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. It is also associated with rigid routines and repetitive behaviors. Those with autism may show little spontaneous interest in people or things they enjoy. Many will never be able to live alone. But it is a mistake to believe they don’t experience enjoyment, have talents and abilities, or want options and choices in their lives. They simply have difficulty processing and responding to the world.