Infantile Autism

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 and its associated behaviors have been estimated to occur in as many as 2 to 6 in 1,000 individuals (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2001). Autism is four times more prevalent in boys than girls and knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. Family income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect the chance of autism's occurrence.

Symptoms

• » Poorly developed verbal and non verbal communication skills
• » Abnormality in speech pattern
• » Not able to sustain a conversation
• » Inability to make friends
• » Tantrum like rages may occur when routine is disrupted
• » Eye contact is minimal
• » IQ falls in the functionally retarded range

Causes

The cause of Infantile Autism is usually accepted as due to brain damage.

Treatment

• » Behaviour therapy helps in speech acquisition
• » Play, language therapy and interpersonal exercises have shown good improvement
• » Drugs help in reducing aggression, self injurious behaviour
• » Children with speech problem grow well to become self sufficient
• » Most of the other children require chronic placement in Institutions.