ABSTRACT
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by widespread abnormalities of social interactions and communication as well as restricted interests and repetitive behavior (APA, 2000). As of 2010, 1 in 110 individuals was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. These statistics, according to Autism Speaks (2010), are more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined. Furthermore, autism reportedly occurs four times more often in boys than in girls and occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups (NINDS, 2008). Early warning signs and subsequent diagnosis of the disorder are first suspect when developmental milestones appear to not be met.
