A Brief History

Autism is not a new disorder. The term was first used in a clinical context by Leo Kanner in 1943 to describe children with “autistic disturbances of affective contact.” Around the same time, Hans Asperger described children with similar but less severe traits in Vienna. However, autistic individuals have existed throughout human history. Historical accounts describe people with traits consistent with autism long before the condition had a name.

Evolution of Diagnostic Criteria

Autism first appeared in the DSM-III in 1980 as “Infantile Autism.” The DSM-III-R in 1987 expanded the criteria and renamed it “Autistic Disorder.” The DSM-IV in 1994 added Asperger’s Disorder and PDD-NOS as separate diagnoses. The DSM-5 in 2013 consolidated these into a single “Autism Spectrum Disorder” with severity levels. Each revision broadened who could be identified, contributing to increasing prevalence rates.

Why It Seems New

Several factors create the impression that autism is new or increasing. Diagnostic criteria have broadened significantly, capturing individuals who would not have been diagnosed under earlier definitions. Awareness among parents, educators, and clinicians has grown enormously. Girls, minority children, and adults are now being identified at higher rates. Better screening and earlier diagnosis mean more people are recognized. The actual biological incidence likely has not changed dramatically.

Historical Figures and Autism

Retrospective analysis has identified historical figures who may have been autistic based on contemporary accounts of their behavior. These include scientists, musicians, artists, and writers whose intense focus, social differences, and unique perspectives align with autism traits. While posthumous diagnosis is speculative, these examples illustrate that autism has always been part of human neurodiversity.

What This Means Today

Understanding that autism is not new helps combat stigma and misconceptions. Autism is a natural variation in human neurology that has always existed. What is new is our ability to identify, understand, and support autistic individuals effectively. Evidence-based therapies like ABA have dramatically improved outcomes. Treetop ABA Therapy is part of this ongoing progress, providing evidence-based support to families across 11 states.