What You Need to Know about Autism

This book offers an accessibly written introduction to autism that make it an indispensable resource for anyone whose life has been affected―directly or indirectly―by this condition.

Autism is a spectrum of developmental disorders that can range from mild to severe. Individuals with autism often have difficulties with communication, social interaction, and sensory processing, and may engage in repetitive or restricted behaviors. Beyond this definition, however, what finer points and real-life implications of these disorders do individuals and families affected by autism need to know?

What You Need to Know about Autism is a part of Greenwood's Inside Diseases and Disorders series. This series profiles a variety of physical and psychological conditions, distilling and consolidating vast collections of scientific knowledge into concise, readable volumes. A list of "Top 10" essential questions begins each book, providing quick-access answers to readers' most pressing concerns. The text follows a standardized,easily navigable structure, with each chapter exploring a particular facet of the topic. In addition to covering basics such as causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, books in this series delve into issues that are less commonly addressed but still critical to understand, such as effects on loved ones and caregivers. Case illustrations highlight key themes discussed in the book and are accompanied by insightful analyses and recommendations.

Christopher Cumo, PhD, is an independent scholar who has authored three books and a number of articles, essays, reviews, and short stories.