Pervasive Developmental Disorder
(PDD)
Incidence
Autism and PDD occur in approximately 5 to 15 per 10,000 births. These disorders are four times more
common in boys than in girls.
The causes of autism and PDD are unknown.
Currently, researchers are investigating areas such as
neurological damage and biochemical imbalance in the
brain. These disorders are not caused by psychological
factors.
Characteristics
Some or all of the following characteristics may be observed in mild to severe forms:
- Communication problems (e.g., using and understanding language)
- Difficulty relating to people, objects, and events
- Unusual play with toys and other objects
- Difficulty with changes in routine or familiar surroundings
- Repetitive body movements or behavior patterns.
Children with autism or PDD vary widely in abilities, intelligence, and behaviors. Some children do not speak;
others have language that often includes repeated phrases or conversations. Persons with more advanced
language skills tend to use a small range of topics and have difficulty with abstract concepts. Repetitive play
skills, a limited range of interests, and impaired social skills are generally evident as well. Unusual responses
to sensory information—for example, loud noises, lights, certain textures of food or fabrics—are also common.
Bridging The Gap ...
