Autism is a complex developmental disability, most often characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication and by restricted or repetitive behavior.  

To view a free online module about autism, click below

Autism or Autistic Disorder is part of the Autism Spectrum.  This spectrum includes other related disorders such as  Asperger’s Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and atypical autism or Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified. 

Also referred to as Autistic Disorder, this developmental disorder appears early in a person’s life.  You can learn about the early signs of autism by clicking here.

ABOUT THE SPECTRUM 

Asperger’s Disorder (or Asperger’s Syndrome) falls on the Autism Spectrum.  It is sometimes thought of as a mild form of autism; however, this disorder can have a huge impact on an individual’s ability to engage in social interactions.  The most obvious symptoms include social difficulties and narrow focus of interests.  An individual with Asperger’s may want to interact with others but have limited success because they have missed or misinterpreted social cues or because of their narrow scope of interests.

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder falls on the Autism Spectrum and presents like autism, however, it doesn’t appear until a child is between two and four years of age. Before age two, the child’s development is just like that of other, typically developing children. Childhood Disintegrative Disorder is thought to be quite rare and usually causes severe impairment.

A diagnosis of Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified is usually given to children that do not meet the criteria for other Autism Spectrum Disorders but who display some of the social difficulties that are associated with autism. 

Rett Disorder is similar to autism in that individuals have difficulty with social interactions and language; however, unlike autism, Rett Disorder also impacts motor development and is primarily seen in females.  

For a detailed definition of autism and related disorders, please click here.