The Rise of Autism

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Autism has become one of the top disabilities in California’s developmental system. Today, the rise of autism is increasing by 10 - 17 percent each year. (Madeleine 3) "The disease was first identified by child psychologist Leo Kanner in 1943 at Johns Hopkins University" (Little 2). Autism is a disorder that is usually detected within the first three years. According to the Autism Society of America, 1 in 166 individuals are diagnosed with autism, making it more common than the pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. Boys are four times more likely to have it than girls. People with autism have a hard time communicating verbally and physically. They have special ways of gathering and reacting to information presented to them. Sometimes people with autism can show violent behaviors. Traits of autism include: avoiding eye contact, preference in being alone, rejecting change, obsessive attachment to objects, and not wanting any physical contact. The main question asked and that can’t be answered is, what causes autism? "There is no known single cause for autism, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function" (Berry 1). Studies have shown that there are differences in the shape and structure of the brain compared to non-autistic individuals. Parents have blamed vaccines, however this theory has not been proven. Other theories researchers are looking into include a connection with heredity, genetics and medical problems. Although there is no cure for autism, there are plenty of treatments and educational approaches that reduce and improve the behaviors associated with this disability.

Starting treatment at an early age gives the child a better chance of reaching normal behavior...

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...Linda. “Consider Genetic Disorder.” Clinical Psychiatry News 33.8 (August 2005): 51(1). InfoTrac OneFile. Thomson Gale. Santa Clara Library. Retrieved January 12, 2007, from

Marohn, Stephanie. The Natural Medicine Guide to Autism. Charlottesville, VA : Hampton Roads Pub., 2002.

Nash, Madeleine. “The Secrets of Autism.” Time, May 6, 2002. Thomson Gale. Santa Clara City Library. Retrieved January 9, 2007, from

Pericak, Margaret. “Discovering the Genetics of Autism.” USA Today. (January 2003): 56(2) InfoTrac OneFile. Thomson Gale. Santa Clara Library. Retrieved January 12, 2007, from

Powers, Michael. Children with Autism: A Parent's Guide. Bethesda, MD : Woodbine House, 2000.

Ritvo, Edward. Understanding the Nature of Autism and Asperger's Disorder. London: Jessica Kingsley, 2006.

Siegel, Bryna. Helping Children with Autism Learn : Treatment Approaches

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