History | ConsultPACE

History of Autism

First medical use of term "autism"

First documented clinical descriptions of autism traits in children.

Emergence of autism as distinct condition from other diagnoses

Beginning of behavioral therapy approaches

Introduction of "autism spectrum" concept - major shift in understanding

Formal inclusion of autism in diagnostic manuals

Recognition of autism in educational rights and services

Rise of autistic voices in advocacy and literature

Growth of autism self-advocacy movements and autistic-led organizations

Unification under "autism spectrum disorder" (ASD), including former Asperger's diagnosis

Advances in understanding autism as a natural variation in human neurodevelopment