Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a behaviorally defined neurodevelopmental disorder associated with persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, accompanied by restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is now recognized as a set of common developmental disorders, with an estimated prevalence of about 1 in every 110 children in the U.S.
The prevalence of ASD creates an extraordinary demand on schools, staff, and teachers to provide interventions that meet the educational needs of students with the disorder.
Individuals with ASD experience major depression and may be particularly at risk when a strong family history of depression exists. Individuals with ASD may also present with catatonia. Catatonia is a group of symptoms that usually involve a lack of movement and communication, and also can include agitation, confusion, and restlessness.
These disorders are categorized, in varying degrees, by having problems in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors
Five different types of autism:
*Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), previously called Asperger's Syndrome;
*Rhett Syndrome, although this has been removed from the spectrum;
*Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD);
*Kanner's Syndrome or Classic Autistic Disorder; and.
*Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).
Autistic spectrum disorders
