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The Spectrum |
www.laurel.mapcl.org/Services.html
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www.laurel.mapcl.org/Services.html |
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"A spectrum is a condition or value that is not limited to a specific set of values but can vary infinitely within a continuum." --Wikipedia definition Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that it affects each individual differently and at varying degrees - this is why early diagnosis is so crucial. A child diagnosed at a young age with autism can greatly benefit from the many early intervention programs available. Autism is one of five disorders that falls under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), a category of neurological disorders characterized by severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development. The five disorders under PDD are as follows: Autistic Disorder Asperger's Disorder Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD) Rett's Disorder PDD-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) Each of these disorders has specific diagnostic criteria which are outlined in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR). |
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