Autism Spectrum Disorders

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), also known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs), cause impairment in thinking, feeling, language, and the ability to relate to others. These disorders are usually first diagnosed in early childhood and range from a severe form, called Autistic Disorder, through Pervasive Development Disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), to a much milder form, Asperger’s Syndrome.

The symptoms of ASD tend to lessen as people grow older. Some adults with ASD, especially those with high-functioning Autism or with Asperger’s Syndrome, are able to work successfully in mainstream jobs. Nevertheless, communication and social problems often cause difficulties in many areas of life. They will continue to need encouragement and moral support in their struggle for an independent life.

Students with ASD may have impairments in one or more of the following:

1. Impairment in social interaction
• Impairment in the use of nonverbal behavior
• Lack of spontaneous sharing
• Lack of social/emotional reciprocity
• Failure to develop peer relationships
2. Impairment in communication
• Delay in or lack of development of spoken language and gestures
• Impairment in the ability to initiate or maintain conversation
• Repetitive and idiosyncratic use of language
• Lack of pretend play or role playing
3. Repetitive behaviors and fixated interests
• Preoccupation with restricted patterns of interest
• Inflexible adherence to routines
• Repetitive movements
• Preoccupation with parts of objects

1. Medical absences
2. Advanced Pre-Registration (including online courses)
3. Private room for more control over the environment (extremely sensitive to external stimuli such as light, sound, etc)