Introduction
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) represent a distinct
category of developmental disabilities that share
many of the same characteristics. Individuals with an
ASD have difficulties with reciprocal social interactions
and interpersonal communication, and may demonstrate
unusual or repetitive patterns of behaviors. We
use the term “autism spectrum disorders” because the
symptoms can occur in any combination and can range
from very mild to quite severe [1, 58].
Autism spectrum disorders include autism and
two related disorders; Asperger Syndrome (AS)
and pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise
specified (PDD-NOS). It is often regarded that autism
is the most severe of the three; however, any individual
diagnosed with a spectrum disorder may be profoundly
affected. Autism spectrum disorders are believed to be
permanent developmental disorders that will continue
into adulthood, creating lifelong challenges for the
individual [87].