Definitions for "Pervasive Developmental Disorder"
Children with PDD or autism vary widely in abilities, intelligence, and behaviors. Some children do not speak; others have limited language that often includes repeated phrases or conversations. People with more advanced language skills tend to use a small range of topics and have difficulty with abstract concepts. Repetitive play skills, a limited range of interests, and impaired social skills are generally evident as well. Unusual responses to sensory information are also common. Some or all of the following characteristics may be observed in mild to severe forms: communication problems; difficulty in 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. The following disorders all fall under PDD: Autistic Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, Retts Syndrome, Aspergers Continuum Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorders – Not Otherwise Specified.
a developmental disability similar to autism but with fewer abnormal symptoms
Disorders characterized by severe and pervasive impairments in several areas of development such as social skills, communication skills, or sterotyped behaviors, interestes, and activities. PDDs include several disorders including austim and Asperger disorder.