Special education

Pervasive Developmental Disorders Phenomenology & Diagnosis DSM vs. Federal guidelines Federal Guidelines Individuals with Disabilities Act ? defines autism broadly ? specify verbal and nonverbal communication and social interaction DSM-IV Autism, Asperger?s, Rett?s, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, PDD NOS DSM-IV Criteria: Total of 6 (or more) items from 1,2, and 3 Qualitative impairment in social interaction, as manifested by at least two of following Marked impairment in multiple nonverbal behavior Failure to develop peer relationships Lack of spontaneous sharing with others Lack of social or emotional reciprocity 2) Qualitative impairment in communication ? at least 1 of: Delay in or total lack of development of spoken language