Exceptional Children and Disability Information

Autism

ABA and Autism	Accommodations/Modifications
Adults with Autism	Advocacy Information
Asperger Syndrome	Assessment
Assistive Technology	Audio/Video Tapes
Autism Educator Information	Books and Publications
Causes	Characteristics
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder	Classifications or Types
Classroom Management	Definition
Diagnosis	Floortime and Autism
Frequently Asked Questions	Functional Assessments
History of the Field	Hyperlexia
Incidence	Legal Issues
Medical Issues/Medications	Organizations
Overview and General Information	Parent Information
Pervasive Developmental Disorder	Prevalence
Rett Syndrome	Sensory Integration Dysfunction
Transition Services

 

Introduction to NAPCSE Autism Page

Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS (not otherwise specified) are developmental disabilities that share many of the same characteristics. Usually evident by age three, autism and PDD-NOS are neurological disorders that affect a child’s ability to communicate, understand language, play, and relate to others.

In the diagnostic manual used to classify disabilities, the DSM-IV (American Psychiatric Association, 2000), “autistic disorder” is listed as a category under the heading of “Pervasive Developmental Disorders.” A diagnosis of autistic disorder is made when an individual displays 6 or more of 12 symptoms listed across three major areas: social interaction, communication, and behavior. When children display similar behaviors but do not meet the criteria for autistic disorder, they may receive a diagnosis of Pervasive Developmental Disorder-NOS (PDD not otherwise specified). Although the diagnosis is referred to as PDD-NOS, throughout the remainder of this fact sheet, we will refer to the diagnosis as PDD, as it is more commonly known.

Autistic disorder is one of the disabilities specifically defined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the federal legislation under which children and youth with disabilities receive special education and related services. IDEA, which uses the term “autism,” defines the disorder as “a developmental disability significantly affecting verbal and nonverbal communication and social interaction, usually evident before age 3, that adversely affects a child’s educational performance. Other characteristics often associated with autism are engagement in repetitive activities and stereotyped movements, resistance to environmental change or change in daily routines, and unusual responses to sensory experiences.” (In keeping with the IDEA and the way in which this disorder is generally referred to in the field, we will use the term autism throughout the remainder of this fact sheet.)

Due to the similarity of behaviors associated with autism and PDD, use of the term pervasive developmental disorder has caused some confusion among parents and professionals. However, the treatment and educational needs are similar for both diagnoses.