Autism

In the Netherlands about 1% of the population has ASD or ‘autism’. There are large differences between people with ASD, which is why it is described as a spectrum disorder. ASD is a lifelong presence, but the main problems it presents (if, indeed, any problems are felt) can also vary strongly over the course of time. This will depend on individual personal factors, on environmental factors, and on interaction effects between the two. There is therefore not only variation between individuals with autism, but also within individuals over periods that may vary from days to years, for example with regard to different life stages.