behavioral and developmental features. Autism is best characterized
as a spectrum disorder that varies in its severity of symptoms.
The primary characteristics of autism are repetitive behaviors and
deficits in social and communication skills. Current estimates suggest
that autism occurs in 1 out of every 166 births. Autism is usually
diagnosed during the first three years of life and is four to five times
more prevalent in boys than in girls. It knows no racial, ethnic or social
boundaries. Today's research suggests that autism is a genetic disorder.
There is no known cure for autism at this time, but early diagnosis and
intensive early intervention in optimal educational settings can result in
improved outcomes for children with autistic spectrum disorders.
