The document provides information about autism including: 1) Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects socialization, communication, and behavior and varies in severity. 2) The causes of autism are not fully known but are generally thought to involve genetic and environmental factors. 3) Symptoms of autism include difficulties with social interaction and communication as well as repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. 4) Early diagnosis and treatment, such as applied behavior analysis therapy, can help improve outcomes for children with autism.