Autism

Autism is one of the five disorders that fall under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association. Other Pervasive Developmental Disorders include Asperger's Syndrome, Rett's Syndrome Childhood Disintegrative Disorders and Pervasive Developmental Disorders not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS).

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have differences in the areas of communication, behavior, and social interaction. In addition, many individuals also experience sensory processing and regulation issues. Autism is a spectrum disorder because the severity of difference in each of these areas varies in each individual. Four times the number of boys than girls are diagnosed with autism. There is some speculation that girls with ASD are under diagnosed because their characteristics often are different than those in boys.

Autism affects individuals without regard to race, religion, or socio-economic status. The current prevalence rate (March 2012, the Centers for the Disease Control) is 1 in 88 children in the United States are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Autism is the leading and fastest growing childhood developmental disorder. Given appropriate support and education, individuals with autism can learn and lead productive and successful lives.

Learn More About Autism Spectrum Disorders

• Centers for Disease Control
• National Institutes of Health
• First Signs – Early Identification
• American Pediatric Association
• Know the American with Disabilities Act Guide to Autism Arizona Office of ADA