Autism is a brain disorder that affects a child's ability to communicate, form relationships, and respond appropriately to their environment. It is characterized by repetitive behaviors, compulsive behaviors, ritualistic behaviors, and restricted, abnormal interests or fixations. Research shows that autism is caused by problems in the function or structure of the central nervous system, and autistic children have been found to have differences in brain development from birth. There are several treatment approaches for autism including medical/biochemical treatments, sensory integration therapy, facilitated communication, modifying the child's environment, and applied behavioral analysis. Decisions also need to be made regarding placement, curriculum, and techniques/modifications to help each autistic child.