WHAT IS AN AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDER?
Autistic Spectrum Disorder is diagnosed based on strict criteria set forth in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV; APA, 1994). It is listed under the category of Pervasive Development Disorder (PDD). There are four types of Autistic Spectrum Disorders • Autism (formally mistakenly referred to as Infantile Shizophrenia) • Aspergers Syndrome (also known as high-functioning ASD) • Retts Syndrome • PDD-NOS (not otherwise specified, also known as atypical autism) Over the past two decades, the rate of autism has increased from 3.3 cases in 10,000 in the 1980’s to between 55-70 cases per 10,000 recently (as many as 1 in 200 births for autism and 1 in 150 births for all types of Autistic Spectrum Disorder). Although it is now a relatively common neuro-developmental disability, Autistic Spectrum Disorder is often very difficult to diagnose. ASD is marked by a triad of symptoms; namely, repetitive or ritualistic behaviours, lack of or inappropriate
Related Questions
- Im interested in the Autistic Spectrum Disorder course but the NAS website gives a closing date for applications; is it too late to apply?
- My son has been diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome. Do you have experience working with a child who have autistic spectrum disorder?
- Is Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) linked with MMR immunisation?
