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The autistic spectrum (sometimes referred to as the autism spectrum) is a developmental and behavioral syndrome that results from certain combinations of characteristically autistic traits. Although these traits may be normally distributed in the population, some individuals inherit or otherwise manifest more autistic traits. At the severe end of the spectrum is low-functioning autism which has profound impairments in many areas, to Asperger's syndrome, and high-functioning autism, to "normal" behaviour and perhaps hypersocialization on the high end of the spectrum.

In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10), autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are classified as pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), as opposed to specific developmental disorders like dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, or dyspraxia.

Contents 1 Autistic spectrum and pervasive development disorders 2 Autistic traits 2.1 Social impairment 2.2 Language impairment 2.3 Imaginative impairment and repetitive adherence 2.4 Sensory integration dysfunction 3 ADHD and autism 4 See also 5 External links 6 References

In practice, autistic spectrum disorder and pervasive developmental disorder are synonymous, but making a distinction is valuable. PDD refers to those psychological and behavioral developmental disorders encompassing many areas of functioning: language and communication, self-help skills, motor coordination, executive function, and scholastic achievement. The nosological category of pervasive developmental disorders includes syndromes that may be etiologically unrelated to autism, with autistic-like behavior being only one part of the disorder: Rett's syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder.

Behaviorally, certain characteristics identify the autism spectrum. The number of autistic traits present determines the severity of autism in the individual. These autistic traits may be beneficial for some disciplines like science, mathematics, engineering, and software. Some autistic individuals might show a marked proficiency in rote memorization which may help learn the foundation of these subjects; however, the exceptionally good aptitude (in these subjects) of high functioning autistic spectrum persons may be due to their ability to readily identify patterns and apply them consistently to new situations outside of established knowledge or teaching.

• Lack of observed desire for friendship
• Poor ability to make friends
• Indifferent to the feelings of others
• Social awkwardness
• Indiscriminate social interaction
• Lack of eye contact
• Brief response to questions
• Gullibility

• Odd or monotonous prosody of speech
• Overly formal and pedantic language
• Echolalia
• Pronoun reversal
• Visuospatial thinking sometimes preferred
• Use of rote chunks of language
• Late or no development of language
• Difficulty or inability to translate thoughts into words
• Poor use and understanding of nonverbal communication (i.e., facial expressions and body language)
• Taking things literally, e.g. when told "Pull your socks up", they will do this.
• Being questioned, may or will have a delayed reaction

• Concrete and literal use of language
• Poor understanding of abstract thought, metaphors and symbolism
• Preference for routine
• Absorption in detail; inability to understand meaning or the whole of a concept
• Perseverative interest or focus

• Hyper- or hyposensitivity of the various senses
• Peculiar clothing and food preferences
• Self-stimulating mannerisms
• Fine or gross motor discoordination

Some research has indicated a possible genetic and behavioral connection between ADHD and autism. As a result, some clinicians have suggested that ADHD be included under the category of autism-spectrum disorders. [1]

Diagnoses of ADHD together with autism spectrum disorder are becoming increasingly common in children. In young children, the two conditions can appear similar. However, as children age, differences emerge between the two conditions. Children with typical autism become more withdrawn, while with a suitable environment hyperactivity reduces. In either event, problems with social skills can develop.

By contrast, children with ADHD rarely calm down with age but often develop social and communication skills to a normal level. Any issues with social skills experienced by children with ADHD may have other causes. Examples include low self-esteem or difficulty with quiet, constructive social interaction.

• List of autism-related topics

• CDC's "Learn the Signs. Act Early.” campaign - Information for parents on early childhood development and developmental disabilities such as autism
• Fact sheets on Autism & Asperger's: diagnosis, interventions, causes & behavior management
• Wrong Planet - A web community for those on the autism spectrum with an emphasis on support and advocacy.
• Autism Spectrum Disorders (Pervasive Developmental Disorders)
• Diagnosis, Education Advice, and Health Issues
• Weird Not Stupid - A website created from the perspective of a person who has two siblings who are on the Autism Spectrum with the goal of giving information to anybody who is seeking it.
• Autism Key - Established by and for parents of children with autism spectrum disorders. Offers research, support, news & media links and message boards.
• Autism Spectrum Disorders from ScienceDaily - Latest research news on autism spectrum disorders. Includes searchable archives.

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism