Autism.

Abstract

Autism is a severe disorder of development characterized by abnormalities in communication, social relationships and patterns of behaviour. This paper reviews the concepts of autism as they have developed over time in relation to research findings showing it to be an organic disorder, involving cognitive deficits, and which is largely genetically determined. Current research is focusing on the ways in which underlying brain abnormalities, genetic factors, neuropsychological deficits and behavioural manifestations are interconnected.