ASD - through OCSB

 

 

"In each one is seen the face of God" - Jean Vanier

An Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)  is a neurodevelopmental disability that can cause persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction and behavioural challenges.  

Diagnostic criteria of ASD have been more clearly defined and broadened in recent years.   A diagnosis now includes several conditions that used to be diagnosed separately: autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger syndrome. These conditions are now all called Autism Spectrum Disorder.  

ASD occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, but is almost five times more common among boys than among girls. The Centre for Disease Control (CDC, 2012) estimates that about 1 in 68 children has been identified with ASD.

The essential features of ASD are persistent impairment in reciprocal social communication and social interaction, and restricted patterns of behaviour, interests or activities. These symptoms are present from early childhood and limit or impair everyday functioning.  Symptoms of ASD fall on a continuum, with some individuals showing mild symptoms and others having much more severe symptoms.