Welcome To TheAutismPuzzle.org!

TheAutismPuzzle.org is your source for all things relating to Autism that invites you to be part of capturing and reflecting on the news and events that take place every day in the community.

The purpose of the web site is to provide a central meeting location where all viewpoints and ideas are welcome. The web site is intended to foster the open exchange of personal stories, thoughts and knowledge in the Autism community – posted by contributors.

These contributors have volunteered to post entries on the site and will encourage other community members to join in the discussion by posting comments, starting a thread on the forums or asking questions for the community to ponder. The contributors are from the Autism community from parents and medical professionals to advocates for many of the Autism community’s organizations. If you would like to become a contributor, click here to contact us.

What Is Autism?
There are many definitions and thought processes about the autism spectrum disorder and the treatment of those with autism.

The Autism Society of America defines autism as “a spectrum disorder, and although it is defined by a certain set of behaviors, children and adults with autism can exhibit any combination of these behaviors in any degree of severity. Two children, both with the same diagnosis, can act completely different from one another and have varying capabilities.“ More

Autism Speaks defines autism “as a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). The other pervasive developmental disorders are PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified), Asperger’s Syndrome, Rett Syndrome and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Many parents and professionals refer to this group as Autism Spectrum Disorders.“ More

What Causes Autism?
According to Autism Speaks, “the simple answer is we don’t know. The vast majority of cases of autism are idiopathic, which means the cause is unknown.“ More

According to The Autism Society of America, “there is no known single cause for autism, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function.“ More

Diagnosing Autism
Presently, there is not a medical test for autism; a diagnosis is based on observed behavior and educational and psychological testing.

For more information, visit The Autism Society of America’s diagnosis section here or Autism Speaks’ section here.