The Path to Diagnosis: A Case Study of Two Children with Autism

Maria Nagle, St. John Fisher College

Abstract

In recent years there have been a growing number of individuals that are being diagnosed with autism. It is interesting that autism did not seem to be as prevalent in society just a few years ago. In order to best determine why autism is more common, the cause of autism must be examined. Currently, the exact cause of autism is unknown; however, the most likely theory at the time is genetics. Understating why autism occurs will help further research on why the number of individuals with autism might be growing. After reviewing the case studies of two families with children who have been diagnosed with autism, there are many similarities found that may account for the rise in diagnosis of autism. Further research is required in order to draw an accurate conclusion regarding the increase in autism diagnoses.