Autism
Final Project – 04/28/2015
Emma Melekian
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Melekian
K0336586
1. Summary of Research
a) Introduction
In this paper I will be explaining what Autism is. In doing so, I will cover multiple
definitions of Autism, the statistics behind Autism, the multiple types of Autism, what
education is like for children and adults with Autism, and what we can do to increase
awareness within our own communities on what Autism is. To find this information I will
use resources such as the internet and books. I will also add a bit of my own personal
experiences with Autism.
b) Definitions/Descriptions
What is Autism? Autism, which is short for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a group
of five brain-based disorders that affect a person’s behavior, which can include social
and communication skills. The Centers for Disease Control describes Autism Spectrum
Disorder as, “developmental disabilities that cause substantial impairments in social
interaction and communication and the presence of unusual behaviors and interests.”
The Centers for Disease Control also mentions that many children and adults with
Autism Spectrum Disorder also seem to have unusual ways of learning, paying
attention, and reacting to many different sensations. An Autism Spectrum Disorder can
begin before the age of 3, but lasts throughout a person’s entire life. The five Autism
Spectrum Disorders, which are sometimes also referred to as Pervasive Developmental
Disorders (PDD) include: Pervasive Developmental Delay (PDD), Autism (sometimes
referred to as Classic Autism, Early Infantile Autism, Childhood Autism, or Autistic
Disorder), Asperger Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder.
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Melekian
K0336586
Pervasive Developmental Delay (PDD): A group of conditions that
involves delays in the development of many basic skills. Often these
children are confused in their own thoughts and have trouble
understanding the things around them.
Autism: Have trouble with social interaction, communication and
pretend play. Limited range of activities, and interests are also
common, as well as high anxiety and resistance to change.
Asperger Syndrome: Difficulty with social interaction and
communication, as well as a narrow range of interests.
Rett Syndrome: Children with this extremely rare disorder have many
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