This comprehensive collection of over 500 terms related to autism spectrum disorders and pervasive developmental disorders clearly explains classification systems, causes, prevalence, diagnosis, screening and assessment, interventions, medical issues and legislation associated with autism, complemented by synonyms and cross-references.

Two appendices provide a list of assessments and instruments used in diagnosis and intervention, and a list of autism-related study centers and organizations, complete with descriptions and contact details.

Over 70 experts from disciplines such as pediatrics, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, education, psychology and psychiatry have contributed entries to make this encyclopedia a `must-have' resource for parents and professionals.