Features of Typical Toddlers and Peers with Autism from Poor Families in Puerto Rico

Abstract

Nearly 700 babies are born with autism yearly in Puerto Rico, mostly from poor families. The island’s socioeconomic condition causes health disparities in these children. For them, there is very limited scientific data on autism diagnostic elements. To address this scarcity of information a record review study was conducted and reported here comparing typical and autistic toddlers. Using customary assessment scales, findings revealed that, for both groups, the most distinguishing aspects were appropriate imitation and object use skills.