What are Autism Spectrum Disorders?

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are a group of developmental disorders characterized by impaired social interactions, communication skills, and restricted/repetitive patterns of behavior. Symptoms present in each child differently. All children diagnosed on the spectrum will present with some combination of symptoms. The spectrum includes Autism, Aspergers, Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), Rett's Syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder.

The Public Health Training Network Webcast Autism Among Us presents the following as possible indicators of ASD:

•  Does not babble, point, or make meaningful gestures by 1 year of age

•  Does not speak one word by 16 months

•  Does not combine two words by 2 years

•  Does not respond to name

•  Loses language or social skills

•  Poor eye contact

•  Doesn't seem to know how to play with toys

•  Excessively lines up toys or other objects

•  Is attached to one particular toy or object

•  Doesn't smile

•  At times seems to be hearing impaired

If your child displays any of these behaviors, see your pediatrician for an evaluation. The National Institute of Mental Health has a very descriptive article on ASD: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/autism/complete-index.shtml

If you would like more information on ASD, please see our resources section or contact:

Rachel Riddleberger, M.S., BCBA
Clinical Coordinator
850-770-2241
rriddleberger@pc.fsu.edu