Pervasive developmental disorder
Pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) is diagnostic category. PDD refers specifically to a number of related disorders which are all characterized by developmental delays in social and communication skills. [1]
Disorders classified as PDD
- Autism
- Asperger's Syndrome,
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder,
- Rett's Syndrome.
Symptoms
Symptoms may appear as early as infancy. Typically the age of onset is before 3 years of age.
Symptoms may include
- problems with using and understanding language;
- difficulty relating to people, objects, and events;
- unusual play with toys and other objects;
- difficulty with changes in routine or familiar surroundings, and repetitive body movements or behavior patterns.
Children with PDD vary widely in abilities, intelligence, and behaviors. Speech may be very limited or completely absent. Some children, on the other hand, have relatively normal language development. Repetitive behaviour and limited social skills are generally evident. PDD children may also demonstrate unusual responses to sensory stimulation, such as loud noises and lights, are also common