ABSTRACT
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability that is considered a spectrum disorder. Individuals can range from mildly to significantly impaired with a great deal of variance between those with ASD. Chapter 1 highlights some clinical definitions and key factors of ASD. Specific challenges children and adolescents with ASD face are also discussed. A thorough list of what professionals should expect when working with children and adolescents with ASD is highlighted in this chapter, as well as how to involve the entire family when completing assessment protocols. Although there is a great deal of variance among children and adolescents with ASD, social skill deficits typically occur with all individuals, hence the need for professionals to focus on this area.
