Autism is a neurobiological disorder that causes discrepancies or differences in the way information is processed (Essential Guide to Finally Understanding Autism). The process of obtaining information affects an individual with autism's ability to do many things. For example, someone with this particular disorder may have more difficulty understanding and using language to interact and communicate with people. He or she may also have difficulty understanding and relating to people, events, and objects in the environment. Autism also affects the ability to respond to sensory stimuli. Like other developmental disabilities, the effects of autism can vary based on severity. Numerous factors that cause the central nervous system to develop abnormally can cause this disorder. There are several events that can occur during fetal development, during birth, or after birth that can trigger certain developmental differences. For example, viral infections such as encephalitis or congenital rubella and metabolic imbalances such as “phenylketonuria” also known as PKU and fragile X syndrome (page 16) can cause autism. Exposure to alcohol and drugs, such as in cocaine-dependent children, and oxygen deprivation can also cause damage that triggers developmental differences; although so far there is no real evidence. Autism must be accepted for what it is for now (page 17).“Dr. Michael Dougherty “believes that there is a combination of genetic and environmental factors” (page 20). “Dr. Michael Dougherty” believes that chromosome 12 is the root cause of the genetic side of autism. Amino acids which are parts of food proteins that cannot be destroyed if a child has two mutated copies of chromosomes… center of paper… is behavior modification, which is the most popular therapy used. Behavior modification uses rewards to shape positive behaviors and eliminate negative ones. Another type of treatment is maintenance therapy. It is based on the premise that children with autism did not receive adequate comfort from their parents as newborns and need extra support now (Autism Fact Sheet). Even though all we have now to cure autism are therapies, many improvements are being made in this area of ​​study. In the meantime it is important that those who work with and care for autistic people are well informed and understanding in dealing with autism. Works Cited http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/autism/detail_autism.htm Understanding the Nature of Autism: A Practical Guide Author: Janice E. Janzen Essential Guide to Finally Understanding Autism Publisher: Legend of eBooks