Definition: A lifelong, pervasive neurological disorder that usually presents itself before the age of three. It effects social interactions, communication, learning, imagination and behavior. Autistic individuals are often described as being 'within themselves' or 'self absorbed'. Autism varies in severity, individuals can be very high or extremly low functioning. Many children with an extreme form of autism are often mistaken for being severely retarded. Currently, the acutal cause of Autism isn't know, however, there a many theories.
Pronunciation: 'o-"ti-z&m
Also Known As: Autism Spectrum Disorder
Common Misspellings: Autizm