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"If you've met one person with autism – you've met one person with autism." Stephen Shore
From the Autism Speaks website: Click here for more information. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Autism are terms for a group of neuro-developmental disorders. Prior to the May, 2013 update of the DSM-5 diagnostic manual, subtypes were recognized that included Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD), Asperger syndrome and others. As a result of the update, all disorders have been merged into the umbrella diagnosis of ASD. The core symptoms of autism are challenges related to:
Individuals with autism can also experience other difficulties, including medical issues, differences in coordination and muscle tone, sleep disturbances, altered eating habits, anxiety or disordered sensory perceptions. The features, abilities and severity of symptoms vary considerably among individuals with autism. An individual with autism may display some or all of the following characteristics:
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