Autism (Also Known as Loneliness Disorder)

Autism, also referred to as loneliness disorder, typically manifests in infancy and early childhood, with a higher incidence around the age of 3, and a relatively high lifetime prevalence. Patients with this condition primarily exhibit varying degrees of social interaction difficulties, language development disorders, narrow interests, and stereotyped behaviors. In severe cases, it may also be accompanied by mental retardation.

1. Social Interaction Difficulties

Patients may exhibit varying degrees of lack of eye contact with others, refusal of parental hugs or caresses, inability to distinguish between close and distant relationships, and failure to show pleasure or satisfaction when receiving affection.

2. Language Development Disorders

Autistic individuals display notable abnormalities in language development, such as delayed language milestones, abnormal language forms or content, reduced language fluency, and nonverbal communication impairments.

3. Narrow Interests and Stereotyped Behaviors

Autistic patients generally lack interest in toys and often engage in repetitive actions like clapping, chest-beating, spinning, and stamping feet.

4. Mental Retardation

While most autistic patients exhibit symptoms of mental retardation, their intelligence is generally not impaired. Autistic individuals often coexist with psychiatric disorders such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression. If these comorbidities are present, prompt detection and treatment are crucial to alleviate symptoms as much as possible.

Although the exact cause of autism remains elusive, research suggests a correlation with parents' inadequate parenting styles, including inappropriate educational methods and management approaches towards their children. These factors can significantly impact a child's growth and development, potentially leading to the onset of autism.