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Before 2013, there were four main categories of autism: Autistic Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD-NOS). The American Psychiatric Association revised these four subtypes in the 2013 publication of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The revised diagnosis states that anyone on the autism spectrum should be diagnosed simply with Autism Spectrum Disorder. While there is only one disorder diagnosed to anyone on the autistic spectrum, several different treatments exist. The standard for autism treatment is for health professionals to tailor the plan according to the individual's symptoms and functioning ability. This type of personalized care allows for the most personal treatment and support options for individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. While there is one disorder, the four subtypes still persevere into a patient's diagnosis. ACES ABA Therapy Center has provided an in-depth look into four subcategories for an individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Learn more about ACES autism therapy options and find an ACES near you today!
Autistic Disorder
This was the broader subtype of autism as a whole. This can be diagnosed through more "classic" autistic behaviors, such as language challenges, repetitive behaviors, struggles with social surroundings, and lapse in their ability to communicate. Another sign of an individual with Autistic Disorder could be the unique strength in either memory, school, or skills and different from others. If any of these signs sound like behavior you have seen in your child, talk to a licensed professional to discuss the next steps or testing procedures.
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder is a condition that does not show up until later in childhood. With this disorder, children can generally develop through age three or four. Then, over a few months, they can start to lose language, motor, social, and other skills that have been learned. This disorder is a rare diagnosis that isn't seen until the child's fourth or fifth year. Childhood Disintegrative Disorder is said to occur in about one or two out of 100,000 kids. While it was a rarer diagnosis, the treatments are highly developed and successful! If any of the behaviors listed sounds like behavior you have seen in your child, talk to a licensed professional to discuss the next steps or testing procedures.
Pervasive Developmental Disorder
Pervasive Developmental Disorder is referred to as a "subthreshold of autism" due to one's lack of complete autistic characteristics. Individuals with this disorder show mild symptoms of some but not all signs of autism. This diagnosis applies to children or adults on the autism spectrum but doesn't fully meet the criteria for other Autism Spectrum Disorders. If any of these signs sound like behavior you have seen in your child, talk to a licensed professional to discuss the next steps or testing procedures.
Since 2013, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) has lumped all of these disorders under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Through this combination of disorders, each child can get the personalized care and treatments needed to reach their full potential! Learn more about ACES autistic therapy options or talk to a Behavioral specialist to give your child the tools needed to excel in their life!
