Pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) refer to a group of disorders that involve delays or problems in communication and social skills. Signs of PDD are usually noticeable by the time a child is 3. Signs of PDD may include:
Problems with using and understanding language
Difficulty relating to people, objects, and events
Unusual play with toys and other objects
Difficulty with changes in routine or familiar surroundings
Repetitive body movements or behavior patterns
Children with PDD vary widely in their behaviors and how well they function. For instance, some children do not speak at all, others speak in limited phrases, and some use language fairly normally. Autism is the most common PDD. Asperger syndrome is the mildest type of PDD.
The causes of PDDs are unknown, but all of them seem to involve problems in the brain. Although there is no cure for PDDs, behavioral therapy and school interventions can help children with PDD function better. Medicines can treat some behavioral symptoms.
Adults with PDD are able to function at varying degrees depending on the severity of the disorder. Many adults with milder forms of PDD are able to work and live on their own or with some help. Still, difficulties communicating and relating to people can cause problems in many areas of life. People with PDD can benefit from skills training, support, and therapy into adulthood.
More information on Pervasive developmental disorders
Explore other publications and websites
Asperger Syndrome Fact Sheet - This online publication describes Asperger syndrome and discusses available treatments, prognosis, and research being done. It also lists additional resources.
Autism Spectrum Disorders (Pervasive Developmental Disorders) - This booklet describes the symptoms, causes, and treatments for autism spectrum disorders, also called pervasive developmental disorders. It also includes information on getting help and coping.
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder - This publication explains what childhood disintegrative disorder is, what causes it, and how it is diagnosed and treated.
NINDS Pervasive Developmental Disorders Information Page - This information page provides the clinical definition of pervasive developmental disorders and discusses research on interventions. It also provides a list of organizations and related publications.
Post Secondary Education - Living with an autism spectrum disorder doesn’t mean you can’t go to college. This fact sheet helps people with autism spectrum disorders and their families prepare for the transition to college.
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