Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
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.
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.