Children with Serious Emotional Disturbances> Autism

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NIMH Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills.  Children with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.  One should keep in mind however, that autism is a spectrum disorder and it affects each individual differently and at varying degrees; this is why early diagnosis is so crucial.  By learning the signs, a child can begin benefiting from one of the many specialized intervention programs available.