The Autism Society of New Hampshire is dedicated to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Individuals
with ASD have the right and capability to pursue happiness, make meaningful choices, and realize their full
potential. Through education, advocacy, and support the Society hopes to foster the understanding, unqualified
acceptance, and genuine appreciation of individuals with ASD
The Autism Society of New Hampshire is a non-profit organization consisting of individuals with ASD, families,
professionals, friends, and community members.
The Autism Society of New Hampshire is a chapter of the Autism Society of America.
What is Autism? Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three
years of life. The result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, autism and its associated
behaviors have been estimated to occur in as many as 1 in 150 births (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
2007). Roughly translated, this means as many as 1.5 million Americans today are believed to have some form of
autism, and this number is on the rise.
Autism is four times more prevalent in boys than girls and knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. Family
income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect the chance of autism's occurrence.
Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and communication skills.
Children and adults with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social
interactions, and leisure or play activities. The disorder makes it hard for them to communicate with others and
relate to the outside world. In some cases, aggressive and/or self-injurious behavior may be present. Persons with
autism may exhibit repeated body movements (hand flapping, rocking), unusual responses to people or
attachments to objects and resistance to changes in routines. Individuals may also experience sensitivities in the
five senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste.
Over 1.5 million people in the U.S. today have autism or some form of pervasive developmental disorder. Its
prevalence rate makes autism one of the most common developmental disabilities. Yet most of the public, including
many professionals in the medical, educational, and vocational fields, are still unaware of how autism affects people
and how they can effectively work with individuals with autism.
What is PDD? Several related disorders are grouped under the broad heading "Pervasive Developmental
Disorder" or PDD-a general category of disorders which are characterized by severe and pervasive impairment in
several areas of development (American Psychiatric Association 1994). A standard reference is the Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual (DSM), a diagnostic handbook now in its fourth edition. The DSM-IV lists criteria to be met for a
specific diagnosis under the category of Pervasive Developmental Disorder. Diagnosis is made when a specified
number of characteristics listed in the DSM-IV are present. Diagnostic evaluations are based on the presence of
specific behaviors indicated by observation and through parent consultation, and should be made by an
experienced, highly trained team. Thus, when professionals or parents are referring to different types of autism,
often they are distinguishing autism from one of the other pervasive developmental disorders.
(Reprint from the Autism Society of America)
Want more information on Autism Diagnosis and Consultation?
What is Asperger's Syndrome?
IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR CHILD'S DEVELOPMENT:
New - Read the New Hampshire Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders Findings and Recommendations 2008 - NEW
1. Talk to your child's doctor. If you don't have a doctor, call the VNA (224-4093).
2. For children under 3:
3. For children over 3:
4. Attend a Conference or workshop!
5. Learn more about Autism, Take A Free Online Course, Autism 101
With intensive intervention, 50 percent of children diagnosed with the disorder before the age of 5 go on to
attend mainstream schools.
Know your rights: The government mandates services.
Consult the National Information Center for Children and Youth With Disabilities
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