What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex and varied neurological and developmental disorder developmental disorder. It can affect a person’s behavior, speech, social skills, and more. As the name suggests, ASD exists on a spectrum. Some people with the disorder learn to live independently while others need lifelong care.

What were once considered separate conditions-PDD-NOS, Asperger’s, and autistic disorder-are now all considered parts of the Autism spectrum. Each of these former diagnoses now fall under the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, an umbrella diagnosis that encompasses a very wide range of individuals and symptoms.

Those formerly diagnosed with Asperger’s fall on the higher functioning end of the spectrum, while those formerly diagnosed with autistic disorder have more severe symptoms, and those once diagnosed with PDD-NOS rest somewhere near the middle of the two.