The autism spectrum, often referred to as just autism, autism spectrum disorder ( ASD) or sometimes autism spectrum condition ( ASC), identifies a loosely defined cluster of neurodevelopmental issues characterized by challenges in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and often repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. Intellectual disability, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, Rett syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizoid personality disorder, selective mutism, schizophrenia, obsessive–compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, Einstein syndrome, PTSD, learning disorders (mainly speech disorders), social anxietyĪpplied behavior analysis, cognitive behavioral therapy, occupational therapy, psychotropic medication, speech–language pathology Multifactorial, with many uncertain factorsįamily history, certain genetic conditions, having older parents, certain prescribed drugs, perinatal and neonatal health issuesīased on combination of clinical observation of behavior and development and comprehensive diagnostic testing completed by a team of qualified professionals (including clinical psychologists, neuropsychologists, pediatricians, and speech-language pathologists)
Social isolation, educational and employment problems, anxiety, stress, bullying, self-harm, depression Psychiatry, clinical psychology, pediatrics, occupational medicineĭifficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and the presence of repetitive behavior or restricted interests An unusual penchant for order is an early hallmark of autism