PRESENTATION OUTLINE
Autism is a mental condition present from early childhood, it is characterized by difficulty communicating and forming relationships with other people and in using language and abstract concepts.
Autism is not one disorder with one cause. It is a group of disorders with many causes. Two causes are genetic vulnerability and abnormalities in the brain.
There are many symptoms. Some of the main ones are difficulty communicating, repetitive behavior, sensory processing problems, and social challenges.
There are currently no medical tests that can test for autism. Specially trained physicians and psychologists can administer autism specific behavior evaluations.
Autism can't be cured but treatment can help. One form of treatment is structured therapeutic activities for at least 25 hours a week. Some people believe that a clean diet can help but this is yet to be scientifically proven. There are also a few unproven treatments.
