Characteristics:

• Difficulties with social interaction

• Verbal and nonverbal communication issues

• Repetitive behavior

• Rooted in early brain development

• Effect 1 in 68 American children

• On the rise

This site describes some of the characteristics and research:

https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism

Signs and symptoms:

http://www.washingtonautismadvocacy.org/updates/what-is-autism/?gclid=Cj0KEQjw6My4BRD4ssKGvYvB-YsBEiQAJYd77Shk2_YZ5X4cpXrOnomR1zJwFLUiCUvAv8UhrPXacLMaAvMG8P8HAQ