Autism is a developmental disorder which makes it difficult for a person to interact socially and emotionally with others. An autistic person will find verbal and non verbal communication difficult and often a limited range of  interests, which may be repetitive. About 5 children in every 1000 will suffer from autism. Boys are 4 times more likely to suffer from autism compared to girls.

Parents are usually the first to notice autistic behavior in their children, who do not respond to people at a young age and concentrate on a single task for a long period of  time. Children with autism may appear to be normal but will withdraw from social activities after a period of  time. They may not know how to play with other children and are unable to interpret verbal and non-verbal cues. Some children may speak in a monotone, while others talk in a sing song voice. They may be hypersensitive to sound, touch and  like to avoid noisy areas. However, they may have a higher pain threshold compared to other children.

Genetic factors are major cause of  autism, and if a child is autistic, the chances that a second child will also be autistic are much higher.  It also believe that brain damage can cause autism, one part of  the brain develops more to compensate for  the damage to the other part. Autism can be mild, with the child  leading a normal or near-normal adult life after treatment. In severe cases, the person may  require care throughout his life.

Treatment of  autism is most effective when started at  a very young age. Therapists help children develop social and  language skills. Sometimes medications may be used in severe cases, but are not recommended.

 About  10% of  autistic persons have  extraordinary mental abilities . Article on an autistic person - A Genius Explains . Such people rarely get an opportunity to work to their full potential, while doing conventional jobs. They can take up telecommute jobs, where there is no social interaction and non-verbal communication.