110 Autism is known as a spectrum disorder in that there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience. Rain Man (1988), directed by Barry Levinson, starring Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman, remains Hollywood s only big success with an explicitly described autistic character. AUTISM AND ASPERGER Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) , is a qualitative impairment in: non-verbal behaviour, such as eyeto-eye contact, facial expression, and body posture; social interaction, such as failure to develop personal relationships and lack of spontaneous social and emotional enjoyments or achievements; verbal interaction, concerning lack or delay in the development of spoken language or the inability to sustain a conversation with others replaced by a stereotyped or repetitive use of language . Causes of autism Research suggests that autism develops from a combination of genetic and environmental influences. Folic acid is a vitamin / a protein / an antibiotic. Can you name some famous people with Asperger s syndrome? to arise: sorgere to babble: vocalizzare to space apart: distanziarsi 228 diFFicUlties Genetic factors. Autism tends to run in families; if a parent carries one or more gene changes, they may pass them on to a child. Some other times, instead, these gene changes arise spontaneously in an early embryo or in the sperm and/or egg that combine to create an embryo. However, these gene changes do not cause autism themselves, but simply increase the risk of developing the disorder. Environmental factors. Certain environmental influences may increase or reduce the risk of autism in people who are genetically predisposed. Some factors that increase the risk are: advanced age of either parent, pregnancy and birth complications (e.g. extreme prematurity, i.e. before 26 weeks, low birth weight, multiple pregnancies, etc.), pregnancies spaced less than one year apart. Prenatal vitamins containing folic acid before conception and during pregnancy reduce the risk of developing it. Extensive research has shown that vaccines do not cause autism. Asperger s syndrome Asperger s syndrome is a term used to describe a developmental disorder that is part of the ASD. It generally features less severe symptoms and higher functioning. Patients with Asperger s can be extremely high-functioning and successful in their careers but have significant difficulties in interpersonal relations . Diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment Doctors can diagnose autism or Asperger s by asking questions about social and emotional abilities, communication skills, learning abilities, movement skills, and special interests. People with ASD tend to have a hard time relating to others socially; they usually stick to a very specific routine, have a narrow set of interests, and act in repetitive ways. No matter the symptoms, it is important to get treatment as soon as possible: early intervention allows the child to develop necessary life skills and become independent. Although there is no universal cure for autism and Asperger, the best treatment seems to be cognitivebehavioural therapy. This can help individuals to manage their emotions better and help to reduce obsessive behaviours and repetitive routines. Another option is medication for coexisting conditions such as anxiety, hyperactivity, and aggression.