DSM IV Definition of Autism

Autism is a developmental disorder that is generally diagnosed in childhood. The diagnostic criteria are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR).

Social Interaction

Autism is marked by impairment of nonverbal behaviors (e.g., eye contact, facial expressions and body postures) and a failure to develop friendships appropriate to age. People with autism may also display a lack of emotional reciprocity as well as a lack of seeking to share enjoyment with others.

Communication

Speech is impaired or absent. In autistic individuals who do speak, there is impairment in the ability to hold a conversation, usually with stereotyped language usage. Spontaneous make-believe and social imitative play is lacking.

Stereotyped Behavior

The individual may have an abnormally intense preoccupation with a specific pattern or parts of objects. Repetitive mannerisms may be present (e.g., hand clapping or twisting movements), and autistic people may appear to be inflexible regarding routines.

Abnormal Functioning

Prior to age 3 years, children with autism may have abnormal or delayed functioning in social interaction, social communication or symbolic or imaginative play.

Other Disorders

The symptoms must not be better accounted for by the diagnosis of either Rett's disorder or childhood disintegrative disorder. In both of these disorders, development appears normal for a period and then appears to deteriorate over time.

References

• American Psychiatric Association; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV, Text Revision; July 2000