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Terms in this set (29)
is characterized by impairment in social interaction and communication, engagement in repetitive patterns of behavior, and delayed development in social interaction, language, and/or play. Criteria are developed based on behaviors of children diagnosed at three years or older. There are degrees of impairment in each of these behavioral areas. For example, some persons have no verbal communication, some communicate by pictures and/or sign language, and some have a semblance of verbal communication ability.
the mildest condition on the autism spectrum, is evidenced by poor relationships with peers, lack of empathetic understanding of feelings/emotions in self and/or others, and repetitive, consistent focus on certain topics or activities. There is some debate as to whether Asperger Syndrome is part of the autism spectrum, sometimes called "high-functioning" autism, or a separate condition. In contrast to autistic disorder, the person with Asperger typically has normal intelligence and is able to communicate verbally, although there may be quirks in the communication patterns. Communication may be very high-level in terms of vocabulary but may be very narrowly focused in terms of topic. Nonverbal cues, gestures, and the concept of personal space may not be understood.
is used when some of the characteristics of autistic disorder are present, but not the full constellation of symptoms. This diagnosis is often used for children under the age of 3 who have exhibited evidence of delayed development in communication and social interaction. However, because of their age, they have not yet reached the point where some of the traits assessed for an official autism diagnosis can be identified as present or absent. Sometimes, children under 3 who have been diagnosed with PDD-NOS are re-diagnosed with autistic disorder at or after age 3.
is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects primarily girls, in contrast to those on the autism spectrum, which more typically affect boys. There has been a genetic mutation identified for this condition, which causes regression in development of language and psychomotor skills after one to two years of typical behavioral development.