Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects people's interactions, communication, learning, and behavior. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is classified as a "developmental disorder" because symptoms typically appear in the first two years of life.
People with ASD frequently have the following symptoms, 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:
- Difficulties communicating and interacting with others
- Interests that are restricted and repetitive behaviors
- Symptoms that impair their ability to function in school, work, and other areas of life
Autism is referred to as a "spectrum" disorder because the type and severity of symptoms vary greatly.