Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-V), created by the American Psychological Association (APA). Autism Spectrum Disorder is categorized as a Neurodevelopmental Disorder, which manifests itself in early development. According to the DSM-V, Autism Spectrum Disorder must be present in the early developmental period of life, although some behaviors may not become fully manifested until the social demands exceed their limited capacities (including the start of school). Autism Spectrum Disorder is defined by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts, currently or in history. These deficits are in the areas of social-emotional reciprocity (abnormal social approach and failure of normal back and forth conversation, reduced sharing of interests, emotions, or affect), nonverbal communication (abnormalities in eye contact and body language, or lack of facial expression), and developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships (difficulties adjusting behavior to suit various social contexts, difficulty sharing imaginative play, and absence of interest in peers). In addition, Autism Spectrum Disorder is manifested by at least two restrictive, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities, including: repetitive motor movements, use of objects, or speech; insistence on sameness, inflexible adherence to routines, extreme distress at small changes, difficulties transitioning, rigid thinking patterns, need to take the same route, and eating the same food every day; highly restricted fixated interests that are abnormal in intensity; and hyper or hypo reactivity to sensory input in the environment including adverse response to sounds and textures, visual fascination with lights or movements, and indifference to pain and temperature. While these symptoms may occur, in order to the DSM-V, these symptoms must cause clinically significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

• 100 Day Kit for Young Children

Knowledge is power, particularly in the days after an autism diagnosis. The Autism Speaks 100 Day Kit helps families of children ages four and under make the best possible use of the 100 days following the diagnosis.

This kit will help you learn more about autism and how to access the services that your child needs. It contains information and advice collected from trusted experts on autism and parents like you.