Abstract
Among the variety of developmental and physical disabilities that have been studied, certain of these have been known to affect families more (drastically) than others. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is such a disability. In the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV; American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2000), the term ASDs is used to describe five related neurodevelopmental disorders contained within the diagnostic classification of pervasive developmental disorders (PDD). That is, ASD is an umbrella term that refers to a range of disorders affecting multiple areas of development: social–emotional development, communication, sensory processing, cognition, and behavioral domains. The highly variable manifestations of autism can range from a nonverbal child with severe cognitive impairment and aggression or self-injurious behaviors to a college student with above-average intelligence and a successful academic and work record (Muhle, Trentacoste, & Rapin, 2004).
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
