Autism is defined as a cognitive developmental disorder that tends to emerge within the first three years of a child's life (PsychNet, 2003). This disorder is then defined by specific symptoms in the following categories:
1. Language
2. Social Skills
3. Behavior
Though research has been done regarding the onset of Autism, reserachers are still unaware of the exact causes of the disorder. The only evidence that research has shown, is that Autism is likely brought about through a combination of an individual's genetics (hereditary traits) and the environment surrounding that individual (Autism Fact Sheet, 2009).
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In order for an individual to be diagnosed with Autism, an individual needs to fall into several different criterion, including the following:
I. Impaired Social Interaction
a. Non-verbal behaviors and communication
b. Lack of close friends/lack of interest in friendship
c. Limited interests or pleasures
d. Limited social/emotional responses (inappropriate responses to situations)
II. Impaired Communication
a. Slow or impaired vocal speech without any compensation
b. Limited ability to begin/sustain conversation with others
c. Repetitive, stereotyped, or non-sensical language
d. Absence of imaginative, imitative, or make-believe play
III. Repetitive or Restricted Activities and Behaviors
a. Obsessive preoccupation over abnormal interests (such as tapping or spinning an object)
b. Rigid schedule of routines and/or rituals that serve little purpose or function
c. Repetitive physical movements such as waving or flapping of hands
d. Persistent interest in the makeup or parts of certain objects
Above listed information taken from:
PsychNet (2003). Disorder information sheet. Retrieved from: http://www.psychnet-uk.com/dsm_iv/autistic_disorder.htm
