Thank you !!! Think i've got it. now i can sleep
Does the term Autism spectrum Disorder include Everything from classic autism to Aspergers to PDD-NOS, OR is ASD another term for PDD????
IS there a difference between Classic autism and Autism???
I'm just trying to make sense of it all or maybe just driving myself crazy
All that you mentioned fall under the autism spectrum. PDD is the umbrella term used in the DSM, but they are most likely going to change it to ASD in the revised edition. I think especially because of the confusion between the terms PDD and PDD-NOS, that they feel the need to do this. Plus, autism spectrum disorder is a more accurate description, in my opinion.
Classic autism is usually what is also called "Kanner's autism" and refers to more severe autism where people are often non-verbal and are more obvious in stimming behaviors (rocking, hand-flapping). Autism can have varying degrees and often there is a subgroup referred to as people with HFA (high-functioning autism). It is basically all a spectrum with each category having people who have differing levels of impairment or functioning abilities.
This is just what I know - not necessarily the absolute truth and nothing but the truth. In other words - I could be wrong! But, I'm pretty sure I've got it straight...