Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism, autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), and related pervasive developmental disabilities are neurological disorders that involve primarily problems of communication, socialization, and behavior. These terms are commonly used to describe the same disabilities; hence, the term ASD will be used hereafter. Individuals diagnosed with ASD express the disability in a variety of ways, and a wide range of abilities, strengths, and limitations are common. This once very rare condition of childhood is now commonly diagnosed. ASD has been one of the most researched conditions over the past few decades, and much progress has been made in understanding and supporting persons with the disability. The exact causes are not fully understood, although poor parenting has been thoroughly disproven as a cause.

Even when compared with other disabilities, ASD ...