Autism Spectrum Conditions
Evidence-based information about autism, characteristics, diagnosis and support resources.
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder* (ASD) replaces previously diagnostic terms such as Asperger's Syndrome and Childhood Autism — DSM-V (APA, 2013) and ICD-11 (into effect in 2022) (WHO, 2018).
ICD-10 (WHO, 1992) used the following diagnostic labels: Asperger's Syndrome (Aspie), Childhood Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), which are still used/valid in the UK.
For a diagnosis, differences need to be present in the early developmental period. However, as demands in life increase, this may become more noticeable.
- Differences in socialisation and communication.
- Differences in interests and repetitive patterns of behaviour.
Autism timeline — Image by Hernandez-Mancilla 2020.
Autism Spectrum Conditions — Key Characteristics
Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by differences in two main areas (APA, 2013):
1. Social communication and interaction
Differences include difficulties with reciprocal interaction and verbal/non-verbal communication — eye-contact, body language, facial expressions and gestures. These are frequently accompanied by challenges in making and maintaining friendships, understanding relationships, and sharing interests.
2. Restricted and Repetitive Behaviours (RRBs)
RRBs involve circumscribed interests, difficulties with change and repetitive motor movements. Hyper- and hyporeactivity to sensory input is often present, including sensory seeking or adverse reactions to sensory stimuli.
Image by Hernandez-Mancilla 2020.
Restricted Repetitive Behaviours — Image by Hernandez-Mancilla 2020.
Prevalence & Key Facts
Health and wellbeing
Autistic people are at higher risk of premature mortality, suicide, and physical health conditions including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, sleep disorders and neurological conditions. Early support and reasonable adjustments significantly improve outcomes.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). APA Publishing.
Brugha, T. et al. (2011). Epidemiology of autism spectrum disorders in adults in the community in England. Archives of General Psychiatry, 68(5), 459–465.
Loomes, R., Hull, L., & Mandy, W. (2017). What is the male-to-female ratio in autism spectrum disorder? JAACAP, 56(6), 466–474.
World Health Organization. (2018). ICD-11 for Mortality and Morbidity Statistics.