The autistic spectrum (sometimes referred to as the autism spectrum) is a developmental and behavioral syndrome that results from certain combinations of characteristically autistic traits.

Although these traits may be normally distributed in the population, some individuals inherit or otherwise manifest more autistic traits.

At the severe end of the spectrum is low-functioning autism which has profound impairments in many areas, to Asperger's syndrome and high-functioning autism, to "normal" behaviour and perhaps hypersocialization on the high end of the spectrum..

For more information about the topic Autistic spectrum, read the full article at Wikipedia.org, or see the following related articles:

Rett syndrome — Rett syndrome (or Rett's disorder) is a progressive neurological disorder that is classified as a pervasive developmental disorder by the DSM-IV. The ...  > read more

Autism — Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder that manifests itself in markedly abnormal social interaction, communication ability, patterns ...  > read more

Personality disorder — Personality disorders form a class of mental disorders that are characterized by long-lasting rigid patterns of thought and behaviour. Because of the ...  > read more

Learning disability — In the United States and Canada, the term learning disability is used to refer to psychological and neurological conditions that affect a person's ...  > read more

Related Stories

Search ScienceDaily

Mystery Diamonds