Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are developmental disorders that are defined by difficulties with communication, social skills, and repetitive behavior. Signs are usually evident by age 3 and last a lifetime. Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means that it affects each individual differently and may show a variety of symptoms that range from mild to severe. Currently, there is no cure; however, through early diagnosis and intervention the symptoms can improve.

Autism Spectrum Disorders include five developmental disabilities found in the DSM IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). These include Autism, Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), Rett Syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder.

Autism is a complex developmental disability that is identified by difficulties with communication, social interaction, and repetitive behavior. Autism impacts neurological development, typically creating difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication, interaction abilities, and leisure or play activities.

Asperger Syndrome (sometimes also referred to as Asperger Disorder) is the term for a specific type of Pervasive Developmental Disorder for which there is no delay in language or cognitive development. It is characterized by difficulties with development of social skills and behavior and restricted interests and patterns of behavior. In the past, many children with Asperger Syndrome were misdiagnosed with autism. While Autism and Asperger Syndrome have certain similarities, there are also important differences; therefore, children suspected of having these conditions require careful evaluation.

Most children with Asperger Syndrome have difficulty interacting with their peers. They tend to be loners and may display eccentric behaviors. A child with Asperger's often has a very specific area of interest, which often does not leave room to explore things that typically interest their peers. He/she also often adheres to non-functional routines, is pre-occupied with parts of objects, and has trouble with emotional regulation. He/she typically speaks fluently and frequently, but language usage is often odd. Difficulty with two-sided social interaction and understanding non-verbal communication further complicates their ability to successfully navigate social situations and develop long-term relationships.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder or PPD-NOS is a classification on the autism spectrum for individuals who exhibit some, but not all, of the characteristics of Autism or Asperger Syndrome. This classification is typically used when there is a severe and pervasive impairment in the development of reciprocal social interaction associated with impairment in either verbal or non-verbal communication skills or with the presence of stereotyped behavior, interests and activities, but the criteria are not met for other disorders either on or off the autism spectrum. (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Copyright 1994 American Psychiatric Association)

(Sources: Some information on this page was provided by The National Autism Association, Kyle’s Treehouse, the American Psychiatric Association and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.)