What is Autism (or “Autism Spectrum Disorder”)?

“Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a ‘developmental disorder’ because symptoms generally appear in the first 2 years of life.

“According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a guide created by the American Psychiatric Association that health care providers use to diagnose mental disorders, people with ASD often have:

Difficulty with communication and interaction with other people
Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors
Symptoms that affect their ability to function in school, work, and other areas of life

“Autism is known as a ‘spectrum’ disorder because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience.”

From: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd

More Resources:

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/autism

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/facts.html

https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism

https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Resource_Centers/Autism_Resource_Center/FAQ.aspx