What is a pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) and autism?
Children that have difficulty with social skills, language, and behavior are said to have a pervasive developmental disorder (PDD). Most children with problems in development have only one or two areas of disability. Children with PDD, however, have problems in many areas, such as social interaction, communication, and imagination. Thus, the term “pervasive” was chosen to describe this disorder. The name of this disorder may soon be changed to Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Autistic disorder, or autism, is a type of PDD. Specific criteria must be met for a child to be diagnosed with autistic disorder. Even though all children with autism meet all the criteria, they may have different behaviors and abilities because of their age and how severe their symptoms are. Children who have problems in areas of development like those listed above, but who do not have autistic disorder are diagnosed with PDD-NOS (Not Otherwise Specified). Children with PDD-NOS may be later diagnosed with autist
