Pervasive developmental disorders, of which autism plays a key role, are disorders that begin in early childhood, already in the first three years, and cause severe damage in the following three areas: the development of social interaction, the development of verbal and non-verbal communication with the existence of stereotyped behavior, and the development of limited interests and activities. Although the cause of autism is still unknown, some authors think that there is a link between the onset of autism and cold/rejecting parents, brain damage, genetic inheritance and similar, but these are only theories that cannot confirm the cause of the disorder with certainty, but only explain its individual parts. Diagnosis is recommended during the second year of life, and the diagnosis itself is a demanding and complex process that requires professional knowledge and experience. As far as treatment and rehabilitation are concerned, there are a number of different approaches and methods for reducing the symptoms of autism. Interventions based on the behavioral approach are used as a basic tool for developing social skills, but there are a number of other interventions that, in combination with each other, will lead to satisfactory results.