Pediatrics Rehabilitation Exam 2 Practice

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition, so its signs start during early life rather than appearing later in adolescence or adulthood. The diagnostic criteria specify that deficits in social communication and interaction, along with restricted and repetitive behaviors, are evident in the early developmental period—usually before age three. Some children may not be diagnosed until later, as social demands grow, but the onset of symptoms is in early development. This is why the correct developmental period is early developmental.