At the age of two, my brother was diagnosed with autism. While he was playing at McDonalds, we noticed that there was something different about John Doe. He didn't associate with other children and wouldn't take off his shoes. He also wouldn't show affection or maintain eye contact with anyone. This left us very curious as to why he behaved so differently from the average two year old. When the doctors told us he was autistic, we were all in shock, but happy to know why he was so different. Autism has many signs, diagnoses, and unknown causes, which has led to the development of coping mechanisms and the need for continued research. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke defines autism as “Autism spectrum disorder associated with ASD is a group of autism spectrum disorders. complex neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by social impairments, communication difficulties, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped behaviors” (“Autism Fact Sheet”). The term “autism” has been used for over 100 years; it comes from the Greek word “autos” which means “self”. Eugen Bleuler, a Swiss psychiatrist, was the first to use the term “autism”. He began using it to describe a group of symptoms of schizophrenia. In the 1940s, the term "autism" was used to describe children with emotional or social problems. The same year, Hans Asperger, a German scientist, identified a similar condition, now called Asperger's syndrome. Asperger's syndrome is a mild form of autism. Children with Asperger's syndrome do not function as poorly as children with autism. From the 1960s to the 1970s, much research was conducted on autism. Research into autism treatments has mainly focused on types of medications, electrical devices...... middle of paper ... or mechanics. Things that an average person would need to learn in a few weeks, an autistic child can learn in a day or two. They see things differently and in a more defined way. Sounds and colors may seem more extreme and vibrant. A small buzzing sound that the average person might not hear, an autistic person will hear it clearly as in broad daylight. The autistic brain is very talented. In 1997, the National Institutes of Health formed its Autism Coordinating Committee to help find a cure for autism. Research is still ongoing to help find new cures and treatments (“Autism Fact Sheet”). Autism presents many challenges that accompany the condition. There are many signs, diagnoses, causes, coping mechanisms and treatment options. Besides all the obstacles autistic children face, they have magnificent brains. Maybe being autistic isn't so bad after all.