Christopher Vs. Raymond

Christopher Vs. Raymond

Autism is a brain disorder that starts early in childhood and endures throughout adulthood. There are three main areas that are affected by autism. These problems involve development, communication, and social interaction. Autistic individuals tend to not make eye contact. For every 4 million children born in the United States every year, approximately 24,000 of these children will eventually be diagnosed with autism.

Christopher and Raymond have many similarities and differences. They both are autistic and have difficulty communicating with others. They also are not superior in certain social situations. They not only have trouble communicating with strangers and the people they grow up with. They seem to be curious and have an amazing memory.

Christopher has a better understanding of animals rather than people. He tends to care about animals as if they are human. This is why he was so upset when the dog was killed. “It made me sad to see the dog was dead.” (Page 7) Christopher screams if he is touched and doesn't understand facial expressions. He knows all the prime numbers up to 7,057 and can solve puzzles that no one else can. Yet Christopher does not understand metaphors, jokes, or human emotion. Due ton his autistic disability Christopher’s everyday life is different then someone who does not have autism. His entire day and interactions have a routine order. When Christopher becomes frightened or upset in a small crowded place he puts his hands over his ears and groans. Christopher tends to be in his own world. For periods of time he will block everyone else out.