Researchers are unsure about what causes autism, but it’s likely that both genetics and environment play a role. Some studies have found that the brains of people with autism may function differently from those that are considered “normal.” Research suggests that an abnormal slowing down of brain development before birth may cause autism. These abnormalities suggest that autism could result from the disruption of normal brain development early in fetal development caused by defects in genes that control brain growth and that regulate how brain cells communicate with each other, possibly due to the influence of environmental factors on gene function. Although these findings are intriguing, they are preliminary and require further investigation.
Autism has a wide variety of characteristics ranging in intensity from mild to severe. One child with autism may not behave like another with the same diagnosis. A child’s primary caregiver is usually the first to notice signs of autism. As early as infancy, a baby with autism may be unresponsive to people or focus intently on one item for long periods of time while ignoring others. A child with autism may appear to develop normally and then withdraw and become indifferent to social engagement. Children with autism typically have difficulty communicating with others, as well as, exhibiting repetitious behaviors, such as head banging, rocking back and forth, or touching or twirling things. Also, children may become upset by a small change in their environment or daily routine and have a limited range of interests and activities. A few very early indicators that require evaluation by an expert would be if the child does not respond to his or her name and displays poor eye contact. If a child does not smile or show social responses, it could indicate that the child may be autistic. Early diagnosis is essential for the child to get the proper treatment and education at an early age, when they can do the most good.
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