Conditions

PSYCHIATRIC AND BEHAVIOURAL DISORDERS ASSOCIATED WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that affects how a person interacts with their environment. It describes a wide range of impairments in social communication as well as restricted and repetitive behaviours, activities and interests. The symptoms are present from early childhood and limit or impair everyday functioning. The term "spectrum" refers to the wide range of symptoms and behaviours that a person might have, as well as their severity. Autism spectrum disorder includes disorders previously referred to as childhood autism, high-functioning autism, pervasive developmental disorder and Asperger’s disorder.

Behavioural symptoms that may be associated with autism spectrum disorder include mood instability, irritability, hyperactivity, inattention and sleep disturbances. Autism spectrum disorder may also be associated with intellectual disability, epilepsy and genetic disorders.