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