Sleep problems in autism: prevalence, cause, and intervention

Abstract

Autism, Asperger's disorder (AD), and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDDNOS) are commonly referred to as ‘autistic spectrum disorders’ (ASD) and are classified as pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) in the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual on Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). Deviant and delayed development in social and communication skills and the presence of restricted routines and interests, and stereotypic behaviours are variously present in ASD. The majority of children with autism have an intellectual disability (ID) while those with AD do not.