Autism - A Spectrum of Disorders Men over the age of forty are far more likely to produce autistic offspring than are younger fathers, says a recently published study out of Israel. Though the specific reasons for the onset of autism are unknown, the research suggests paternal genetic factors. Some characteristics of autistic children include repetitive actions, obsession with a single idea, inability to socialize, avoidance of eye contact and physical touch, inappropriate laughter, and apathy. Still, many autistics can be sociable and intelligent (Newton and Einstein showed autistic tendencies), as is evident in people with mild autistic spectrum disorders like high functioning autism and Asperger's syndrome.