Autistic spectrum

The autistic spectrum (sometimes referred to as the autism spectrum) is the idea that autism is a developmental and behavioral syndrome that results from certain combinations of traits. Although these traits may be normally distributed in the population, some individuals inherit or otherwise manifest more autistic traits. At the severe end of the spectrum is low-functioning autism which has profound impairments in many areas, to Asperger's syndrome and High-functioning autism, to "normal" behaviour and perhaps hypersocialization on the high end of the spectrum. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10), autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are classified as pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), as opposed to specific developmental disorders like dyslexia or dyspraxia.

Related Topics:
Asperger's syndrome - High-functioning autism - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems - Pervasive developmental disorders - Specific developmental disorders - Dyslexia - Dyspraxia

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