Autistic Disorder 299.00

Autistic disorder is characterized by abnormal or impaired development, especially in social interaction & communication, along with restricted activities & interests.  There is a lot of variability in impairment levels among people with autism based on age and individual differences.  Autism onsets before the age of three & though it may be very subtle in infancy, it can sometimes be identified very early on.  Autism occurs in males more than females, but females are more likely to have more severe mental retardation w/ autism.  In most cases, there is a co-occurring diagnosis of mental retardation.

I will endeavor to summarize the diagnostic criteria.  For further clarification, look in the DSM.  To make it easy, the criteria for autistic disorder can be found on page 75.  Aren’t I great?  I’m trying to put these criteria into my own words, but at times it is difficult.  Please don’t call me out for plagiarizing the DSM!

The person has to have a minimum of six total of the criteria below.

At least two criteria from here	At least one criterion from here	At least one criterion from here
-impairment in use of multiple nonverbal behaviors (eye contact, facial expression, gestures & postures) to regulate social interaction -failure to develop appropriate peer relationships -does not seek to share interests, enjoyment or achievements with other people (doesn’t point things out to others or bring things to show or share) -lack of social or emotional reciprocity	-delay or complete lack of spoken language & with no attempts to compensate by gesturing/miming -impaired ability to start/sustain conversations -repetitive use of language or stereotyped language -lack of make-believe play or imitative play that is congruent with developmental level	-preoccupation with stereotyped/restricted interests that is abnormal in focus or intensity -inflexible adherence to specific, nonfunctional routines/rituals (think gotta see Wapner in Rain Man) -stereotyped or repetitive physical movements, like hand or finger flapping/twisting -persistent preoccupation with parts of objects

Delays must onset before the age of 3 & can’t be better accounted for by Rett’s disorder or childhood disintegrative disorder.