Autism Explanation: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention. People with autism can get overstimulated and overwhelmed by different textures, smells, sounds, tastes and sights very easily, causing them to have a meltdown.