Pervasive Developmental Disorder

Information taken from Emory Autism Center, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin and Autism Speaks   

WHAT IS PERVASIVE DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDER?

Pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) is a general category which refers to a group of conditions characterized by delays in communication, social skills, and / or attention.  Types of PDD include the following:  Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), and Rett Syndrome  

WHAT CAUSES PDD?

The specific cause of PDD is unknown; however, studies have found that it is neurologically based and that a genetic cause is possible.  It should be noted that PDD is a newly termed disorder and many studies are still taking place.   

WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF PDD?

Children who have PDD will experience symptoms differently depending on the type of PDD they have.

OUR APPROACH AT KEY THERAPIES:

We will develop an individualized treatment plan for each child based off of his / her current needs. Treatment may include social skills training as well as promoting language and communication. Social Thinking® Products may be used to help teach social skills.