Research ShowsThere is no known cause of Autism at this point in time. We do know that there are neurological differences in the brain of a child with Autism. In some families there have been found to be other relatives with disorders in the Autism family such as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Bi-polar Disorder and others that suggest there may be a genetic basis to the disorder. The University of Washington Autism Center does ongoing research and is a good source of information. Autism is not a mental illness and children with Autism do not choose to exhibit the negative behavior associated with it. Although there is no known cure at this time, there are therapies and medications that can have a positive affect on the symptoms. Some characteristics improve as the child gets older.  It's important to remember that a therapy, teaching style, or medication that works great for one child with Autism may have a completely opposite affect on another child. It's important to evaluate solutions you hear about them and use them first as a trial that is carefully watched.   *this note is from the autism society of washington!!