What is autism?

October 28, 2006

Autism is a brain disorder in which normal social interaction is difficult or impossible. Most experts say they believe it results from an interplay of genes and unknown environmental factors:

• During the 2000-2001 school year, the State Department of Education reported serving 973 students with autism. State officials have estimated there are more than 3,000 students with autism.

• At least 425,000 Americans younger than 18 have some form of autism, including 114,000 children younger than 5.

• Prevalence rates are the same for black children and white children.

• Autism is four times more common in boys than in girls.

What is Applied Behavioral Therapy?

This treatment is based on the theory that behavior rewarded is more likely to be repeated than behavior ignored. It focuses on giving the child short simple tasks that are rewarded when successfully completed.

For more information

Pro Parents

http://www.proparents.org/

South Carolina Autism Society

http://www.scautism.org/

South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs

http://www.state.sc.us/ddsn/index.htm

Protection and Advocacy for People with Disabilities Inc.

http://www.protectionandadvocacy-sc.org/

SOURCES: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; S.C. Department of Education

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