Early Origins of Autism
 by Patricia M. Rodier

This article was originally published in "Scientific American," February 2000 and is copyrighted. Back issues can be ordered at  http://www.sciamdigital.com/browse.cfm?sequencenameCHAR=item2&methodnameCHAR=resource_getitembrowse&interfacenameCHAR=browse.cfm&ISSUEID_CHAR=C4526EEF-D9D1-4F3D-A8AF-B654CAA2A4A&ARTICLEID_CHAR=03F67CD4-43E3-463A-9922-B9E13DF42F9

In my opinion, this is a very important, very under-reported addition to the literature on autism. The original article is available for purchase in the February, 2000 issue of "Scientific American." Just click on the link above to go to that web site for ordering.

Autism has been mystifying scientists for more than half a century. The complex behavioral disorder encompasses a wide variety of symptoms, most of which usually appear before a child turns three. Children with autism are unable to interpret the emotional states of others, failing to recognize anger, sorrow or manipulative intent. Their language skills are often limited, and they find it difficult to initiate or sustain conversations. They also frequently exhibit an intense preoccupation with a single subject, activity or gesture.

These behaviors can be incredibly debilitating. How can you be included in a typical classroom if you can't be dissuaded from banging your head on your desk? How can you make friends if your overriding interest is in calendars?   .......

to read more   http://www.autistics.cc/Autism/sciamone.html