The Changing Diagnosis of AutismOver the years, the diagnosis of autism has changed dramatically. It was once misdiagnosed as childhood schizophrenia. Now that much more research has been done, researchers have discovered distinct characteristics typical of autistic people. They are most often characterized by difficulties in the child's ability to respond to people, events and objects. Responses to sensations of light, sound, and sensation may be exaggerated. Speech and language delay may be associated. Other features include: reduced ability to form friendships with peers, absence of imaginative activity, stereotyped body movements, persistent preoccupation with certain parts of objects, marked distress over changes in insignificant aspects of environment, unreasonable insistence on following routines down to the smallest detail, restricted behavior. a range of interests and a concern for a narrow interest, among many others. Although some characteristics are typical of autistic children, diagnosis is a multidisciplinary effort. Diagnosis requires a team of professionals due to the many unique characteristics and behaviors of the autistic child. Each professional is assigned a different behavior to monitor. However, the psychiatrist and psychologist are primarily responsible for the diagnosis and psychological evaluations involved. The onset of this disease is usually observed within the first two and a half years. In 1968, the APA labeled autism a single disorder, and it is now known to be a syndrome of behavioral and medical effects. Along with autism, several related disorders are grouped under Pervasive Developmental Disorders, PDD, a general category...... middle of article ...... disorders and reduces the effects of allergies. However, this poses some problems and it is questionable whether this system will be widely used. As research shows, there are many ways to find treatments for autism. It's also important to keep up with medical research, as it seems to discover and approve new treatments quite often. The most important part is finding out what is best for the individual and going from there. Bibliography: McClannahan, Lynn E. (1999). Activity programs for autistic children. New York: Woodbine House Inc. Kranowitz, Carol MD (1998). The child out of sync. New York: Skylight Press. Pierangelo, Roger Ph.D. (1996). Special Education Guide. New York: Center for Applied Research in Education. Schopler, Eric. (1995). The Autism Survival Manual. London: Plenum Press.