According to the Revised Administrative Rules for Special Education in Michigan, R 340.1715 Autism spectrum disorder defined; determination.


Autism spectrum disorder is considered a lifelong developmental disability that adversely affects a student’s educational performance in 1 or more of the following performance areas:

                        (a) Academic.

                        (b) Behavioral.

                        (c) Social.


Autism spectrum disorder is typically manifested before 36 months of age. A child who first manifests the characteristics after age 3 may also meet criteria. Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by qualitative impairments in reciprocal social interactions, qualitative impairments in communication, and restricted range of interests/repetitive behavior.

In laymen’s terms, autism spectrum disorders are lifelong developmental disorder that vary in degree and can affect an individual’s ability to socially interact with others, communicate, and behave.