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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Definition

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior or interests.

Analogy

Imagine if your brain was like a radio tuned into several stations at once. You're getting all this information coming in at the same time - sounds, lights, people talking - it can be overwhelming. This is how some people with ASD might experience the world around them due to sensory sensitivities.

Related terms

Asperger Syndrome: A type of pervasive developmental disorder which is defined by significant difficulties in social interaction along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. It differs from other autism spectrum disorders by its relative preservation of linguistic and cognitive development.

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): A condition where the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes through the senses.

Social Communication Disorder (SCD): A disorder where individuals have difficulty using verbal and nonverbal language for social purposes leading to difficulties in communication and social relationships.