Autism spectrum disorders

Autism is a group of complex disorders of brain development. The disorders are associated with intellectual disabilities, difficulties in motor coordination, and attention and physical issues.

Screening Tools

Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised (M-CHAT-R), ages 16-30 months, is a 20-question parent-informed screener for toddlers. The results indicate if a further evaluation for autism may be needed.

Clinical Guidelines and Best Practices

Autism Spectrum Disorders Clinical Practice Guideline (PDF)

The American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) Identification, Evaluation, and Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder (2020)

The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry’s Practice Parameter for the Assessment and Treatment of Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Patient Resources

Conduct your own keyword search in our Healthwise library for more resources to help your patients make better health decisions.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Does not respond to affection and touching
Does not make eye contact
Difficulty communicating
Struggles to develop two-way social relationships with others
Does not show a preference for parents over other adults
Does not develop friendships with other children
Has poor language skills
Shows unusual, extreme responses to objects
Continuous interest in moving objects
Forms an unusual attachment to odd objects such as a paper or rubber band.
Spins and repeats body movements

Behavioral health conditions