Autism Spectrum Disorders (Paperback - 2012)

Autism is a disorder of neural development characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behaviour. The signs begin before a child is three years old. Autism affects information processing in the brain by altering how nerve cells and their synapses connect and organize, but how it occurs is not well understood.

Autism has a strong genetic basis, although the genetics of autism is too complex to draw specific conclusions. In some cases, autism is associated with agents that cause birth defects. Controversies surround over the environmental causes like heavy metals, pesticides, childhood vaccines, etc. though there is no convincing scientific evidence. According to P. Howlin et al., not many children with autism live independently though some become successful.

According to S.M. Myers et al., the main goals when treating children with autism are to lessen the associated deficits including family distress and to increase the quality of life and functional independence. The treatment has to be tailored according to the child’s needs.

The book Autism Spectrum Disorders provides detailed information on how to detect and cope up with autism. The chapters, as they are based on case studies, give a detailed knowledge about the techniques and methods to improve an autistic child’s condition.

Cases of autism are increasing as the lifestyle of the people is changing fast. In this regard it is very essential for the people to have good knowledge of autism. The book serves this purpose. It will impensely help parents and other family members of autistic children. It will also benefit those who are taking care of or treating children with autism.

I. Victoria Susan is working as Assistant Professor in Department of Education of Acharya Nagarjuna University of Andhra Pradesh. She is a postgraduate in Physics, Education & Psychology. She is a social worker and works for the development of under-privileged children. Using her knowledge of child psychology and her experience as a concerned social worker, she took up the study of Autism Spectrum Disorders to assist the parents as well as the children to the best of her abilities, help them to adjust to the challenging situations and lead a life of functional independence.