Autism, Autistic disorder [DSM-IV]

Definition

Autism

[n. autism \ origin: Eugen Bleuler 1911] Hans Asperger: The autistic is "just himself" (hence the word αύτος).*  Currently there is a discussion in psychiatry "what is psychopathology", but of course when the balance is shifted towards "disease" we could say about the diseased autistic, has a autistic "disorder" ** or other disorders belonging to PDD (Pervasive Developmental Disorder). 

Autistic disorder

Official name according to DSM-IV. Belongs to PDD according to DSM-IV. The criteria are similar to the Asperger syndrome except: 
- development disorder in spoken language
- stereotyped and repetitive language 
- lack of playful behavior according to development

Kanner's autism

Named after Leo Kanner (1943), synonym "Autistic disorder" according to DSM-IV.

Kanner's syndrome

Synonym Kanner's autism

Comment     When conventions (DSM-IV, ICD-10 etc.) are left out, every introverted person with a healthy Self center, which we called at this site: the psychological shift type 3 (systemizer), could be called "autistic". See for a discussion on the autistic spectrum: autistic disorder or autistic type.

  * Die "Autischen Psychopathen" im Kindersalter, Hans Asperger, 1943
** no definition adequately specifies precise boundaries for the concept of "mental disorder." DSM-IV, introduction, definition of mental disorder