Pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) or atypical autism is an autism spectrum disorder and, as such, people with PDD-NOS display behaviours similar to those with autism. However, with PDD-NOS only some symptoms are present, and the degree of impairment is generally less severe compared to autism and even Asperger’s syndrome.
Symptoms and characteristics
Pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified is characterised by an insufficient demonstrated impairment in one or two of the three areas required for an autism spectrum disorder (namely social interaction, communication and restrictive/ repetitive behaviour). That is, the full features of an autism spectrum disorder are not exhibited.
People with PDD-NOS typically have difficulties with social interactions and verbal and nonverbal communication. Specific symptoms that may be relevant to the workplace include:
Social interaction
aloofness and failure to develop friendships
- seeking people's company without wanting to engage in two-way social interaction such as talking
- one-sided conversation which can be repetitive, with the same question or phrase repeated several times
- avoidance of eye contact
- not being able to understand social rules, such as making socially embarrassing comments unintentionally
- difficulty understanding the motivation, perspectives or feelings of others
- increased use of non-verbal communication behaviours, such as facial expressions and gestures.
Communication
Workplace adjustments and solutions
For specific workplace information relating to assisting individuals with autism or related disorders in the workplace, please follow the link:
There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements:
References
National Dissemination Centre for Children with Disabilities 2003, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, National Dissemination Centre for Children with Disabilities, Washington, viewed 6 March 2009, http://www.nichcy.org/pubs/factshe/fs20txt.htm.