Understanding Pervasive Development Disorder

If your child has significantly delayed milestones, has trouble talking or understanding language, or gets upset when his/her routine changes without warning, he/she may have a pervasive development disorder. Since 2013, pervasive developmental disorder definition has been synonymous with autism spectrum disorder. So what are these disorders, and how can you determine if your child has them?

What is Pervasive Development Disorder?

Pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), now known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), are characterized by delays in the development of social and communication skills. Parents may note symptoms as early as infancy, although the typical age of onset is by 3 years of age.

Children with PDD vary widely. Some children do not speak at all, while others speak in limited phrases or conversations, and some have relatively average language development. Repetitive play skills and limited social skills are generally evident. Extreme responses to sensory information, such as loud noises and lights, are also common.

Symptoms may include:

• Problems with using and understanding language

• Difficulty relating to people, objects, and events

• Different modes of playing with toys and other objects

• Difficulty with changes in routine or surroundings

• Repetitive body movements or behavior patterns

There are five types of PDDs. These include the three known autism spectrum disorders—autism, Asperger syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)—as well as childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD) and Rett syndrome.

How is it Diagnosed?

A child with a pervasive developmental disorder needs to be treated or handled in a way that suits him/her correctly. Since each child is affected differently, effective treatment can begin only after the therapist thoroughly examines and interacts with the child. No lab tests can conclusively prove how a child is affected. The therapist determines this by means of asking questions, noting responses and behavioural cues. Developmental screening at different ages (beginning at nine months) may also be used.

Support Options available

There is a variety of supportive therapies and other considerations available. This includes:

1. Speech or language therapy

This type of therapy can help with deficits in language or communication.

2. Occupational or physical therapy

These can help with coordination issues and learning day-to-day tasks, such as getting dressed and bathing.

3. Cognitive behavioral therapy

This can help autistic people in dealing with anxiety, depression, or other psychological challenges they may be experiencing.

4. Applied behavioral analysis (ABA)

This is concerned with reinforcing positive behaviors while discouraging negative behaviors.

5. Alternative or complementary therapies

These can include a variety of things such as music therapy, massage therapy, and herbal medicine.

Medications are also usually used in conjunction with therapy sessions for the best outcomes. Medicines are typically used to address specific symptoms of the pervasive developmental disorder, like anxiety or OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder).