Autism Spectrum Disorder Adapted from Hallahan, D.P., J. M., & Pullen, P. C. (2012). Exceptional learners: An introduction to special education (12th ed.). New Jersey, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.
Definition Based on American Psychiatric Association: DSM-V Development, in order to be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, the individual must meet the following criteria:
1. Significant long-term deficits in social communication and interactions, as of following: a. Noticeable deficits in nonverbal and verbal communication used for social interaction; b. Deficiency in social mutuality (give-and-take); c. Failure to build and maintain peer relationships fitting to developmental level 2. Limited and repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests and activities of at least TWO of the following: a. Fixed motor or verbal behaviours or unusual sensory behaviour b. Extreme commitment to routines and ritualized patterns of a behaviour c. Limited and engrossed behaviour 3. Symptoms must be present in early childhood (but may not become fully manifested, until social demands exceed restricted capabilities).