Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder. It influences a person's ability to communicate and how they interact and socialize with others. Those with mild forms of autism can be high-functioning and can live on their own, while others with severe cases may remain non-verbal and function on a very limited basis. Autism is usually diagnosed at an early age, many times before the age of 3. There are four main categories of symptoms: social, language, behavioral and medical.
Social Skills
Children who are diagnosed with autism usually show prominent signs of delayed social development. Many make little or no eye contact and show little interest in making or establishing friendships. Few seek out play mates and rarely engage in make-believe play.
Autistic adults and children become easily upset when their routine changes. Anything that causes more than a minor disruption could send them into a full-blown behavioral outburst.
Language
Many autistic children are delayed when it comes to learning and speaking. In some cases, children who are already talking regress and won't speak at all. In some cases, autistic children and adults will speak in abnormal, robotic tones or will sing words and phrases. They may also tend to repeat certain phrases over and over. Sometimes, they may act as though they are deaf, refusing to respond when spoken to or when their names are called.
Behavioral Signs
Depending on the severity of the disorder, autistic children and adults may avoid physical contact. Some may respond to a slight touch, but most might try to avoid outward displays of affection, such as hugs or cuddling. Many people who have autism will fixate on objects, such as spinning tops and plates. Autistic people may use repetitive movements, such as rocking back and forth or constantly moving their fingers.
Medical Signs
Some people who suffer from autism also have epilepsy and other seizure disorders. Some researchers believe that when autistic children regress in areas like speech, they may be more likely to develop a seizure disorder.
