Pervasive developmental disorder or PDDs involve certain medical conditions in children which cause hindrance in normal developmental process, hampering their interaction with others, use of imagination and creativity and communication process. This condition is diagnosed when the child is about 3 years of age and is unable to perform basic functions like walking, eating and talking. 5 types of PDD include: autism, Asperger’s syndrome, Rett’s syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and PDD Not Otherwise Specified. Such children must have a special treatment and education program to stabilise their condition and stop further deterioration.
Special education programme should be undertaken so that the child becomes able to do normal activities like drinking, eating and communicating with others without difficulty. Behaviour modification therapies to improve positive behaviour in the child are used. Further, speech therapy is used to teach the child to communicate to others in verbal and non-verbal manner, and physical therapy is used to alleviate certain symptoms like scoliosis and reliving pain. Occupational therapy is another way to improve other abilities of the child, like drawing and painting. Drugs cannot be used to eliminate PDD, but to