| Autism is a complex developmental disorder which | | | | Children with autism often do not like to be touched or |
| presents itself typically during the first three years of a | | | | cuddled. Although many will allow and enjoy a hug |
| child's life. This condition is a neurological disorder that | | | | given by a relative simply because it is an expected |
| effects normal brain function and the development of | | | | pattern they have gotten used to. Without the child |
| social interaction and communication skills. People who | | | | expecting or anticipating the physical contact, the |
| are diagnosed with autism typically prefer to stay with | | | | results may be completely different. |
| a set pattern of behavior and will resist any change to | | | | Sudden loud noises can be very unpleasant and |
| their daily schedule of activities. | | | | shocking to people who have autism as well as certain |
| Autism does not affect people the same way nor will | | | | smells and sudden changes in lighting. Some believe it |
| they have the exact same symptoms. That is why | | | | is not so much the certain noise, smell, or type of light |
| autism is often described as a wide-spectrum disorder. | | | | as it is the element of surprise or not being able to |
| Some will only experience mild symptoms, while others | | | | prepare themselves for the onset of change. |
| will be severe. | | | | People with autism do feel love, happiness, sadness |
| Social interaction for a person with autism is quite | | | | and pain just the same as anyone else. Simply |
| different as compared to how others behave. A | | | | because they may not express themselves the way |
| person with autism at times may seem socially clumsy | | | | others do, does not make them any less of a person. |
| and may even seem rude or offensive in their | | | | People affected by autism are just ordinary people |
| comments. | | | | with a special way of viewing the world. |