What is autism?

Ah yes, the $64,000 question. Well, the dictionary definition is

Autism (psychiatry)n absorption in imaginative activity directed by thinker's wishes, with loss of contact with reality; an abnormality of childhood development affecting language and social communication

Chambers Dictionary

In modern terms, there are a whole range of conditions associated with autism, and this has given rise to the relatively modern concept of the Autistic Spectrum, ranging from "milder" forms of autism such as attention deficit disorder or Aspergers Syndrome, to the more serious classical forms of the condition.

All those who suffer from autism or related conditions show 3 main areas of difficulties, which is known as the Triad of Impairments:

difficulties in speech, language and non verbal communication - the child finds it difficult to initiate conversation or communication, cannot "read" situations to know what is or is not appropriate language, and may find it equally difficult to read physical communication or body language

difficulties in social interaction - an autistic child often has difficulties in forming relationships, particularly with children of his or her own age

imaginative play - because of difficulties in relating one set of emotions with diffent situations, an autistic child often has difficulty in imagining things, which hinders play and development,and also further hinders social interaction

What is the cause of Autism?

The jury is stillout on this one (quite literally - see below). It is generally agreed that it is related to problems with brain development. This can be caused before, during or after birth. It is also generally agreed that classical autism has a genetic basis. However, newer conditions are being diagnosed as regressive or aquired autism. The main difference is that children with this new form have developed normally (or are above average) before the regression kicks in. Unlike classical autism, regressive autism can kick in at a later stage in development (i.e. well after 18 months to 2 years of age). Arguments rage as to whether some types of autism are linked to the Mumps Measles and Rubella (MMR) vaccine at the age of 15 months, or are linked to forms of bowel disorder. This site does not deal with those arguments, though you may wish to read further (see the links at the bottom of this page).

Is there a cure?

A cure for autism is not currently known, and so a wide range of therapies and treatments have been developed (these are discussed later in this document). Although these treatments and therapies are not cures, they can help improve the standard of life for a person with autism. During the 1990's research into the biomedical side of autism has given rise to exciting medical interventions which can help ASD children considerably. Given the correct support, treatment and education, people with autism can lead a happy and productive life.

Rory is being helped with the ABA method.

for more reading on the subject, try these links:

http://www.autism-uk.ed.ac.uk/advice.html

http://www.nas.org.uk/ - the National Autistic Society

http://www.alexharris.co.uk/mpa_mmr.asp - for information on the legal case on MMR