Autism Spectrum Disorder Types

The definition for autism spectrum disorder is essentially an umbrella of a number of somewhat similar disorders. Different levels of autism and different types of autism, including other closely-related disorders like asperger syndrome and pervasive development disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), are all referenced when explaining autism spectrum disorder. All disorders for autism spectrum disorder are characterized by abnormalities of communication and social interactions, as well as highly repetitive behavior and severely restricted interests. Of the documented forms of autism spectrum disorder, PDD-NOS was diagnosed the majority of the time, with autism types and asperger syndrome much less of the time. Rett syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder were much rarer disorders from the total number of diagnoses.

Explaining autism spectrum disorder can be somewhat confusing because the three main forms are somewhat similar in signs and symptoms:

  • Asperger syndrome: Sharing some of the same behavioral and physical symptoms like repetitive motor behaviors and intense focus on an object, unlike autism, children have no significant delay in their language development and will approach others.
  • Autism: Shares similar behavioral characteristics, but children with the disorder are more often withdrawn and have trouble with language.
  • Pervasive Development Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS): Usually diagnosed when it's clear a child has some form of autism spectrum disorder, but the criteria are not met for one specific disorder.

Usual characteristics and symptoms are associated with impairments of interaction and social communication along with repetitive activities and interests. However, particularly with asperger syndrome, there is a part of the autism spectrum disorder population that show unusual abilities like memorization of numbers or trivia and other rare talents. This shows how varying and deceptive the disorders can be. Make sure to not mistake one or two symptoms as your child having a disorder. It's important to notice a trend and have the child professionally diagnosed.

Autism spectrum disorders have shifted from being somewhat misunderstood to something we can diagnose and help families work through. Using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as our instrument of teaching, our goal is to help give your child the best possible life they can have. This process does include the parents, as well, and our services include teaching you how to reinforce positive behavior while reducing behaviors that could be considered harmful. Especially for a disorder within the autism spectrum - there isn't a "one size fits all" treatment. Individuals deserve personalized care, and we'll do everything it takes to find what works well for your child and family.