_____ means a disorder that meets the criteria for a pervasive development disorder described in the most recent Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

• A. Autistic Disorder
• B. Asperger's Disorder
• C. Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
• D. Pervasive Developmental Disorder

Answer: (D)

Pervasive Developmental Disorder is the broad label used for disorders that meet criteria described in the DSM as pervasive developmental disorders. It represents the umbrella category that covers any condition within that group, rather than a specific subtype. The reason this is the best choice is that the term describes a disorder that fits the overall DSM-defined pattern of pervasive developmental issues, whereas the other options name particular disorders that fall under this umbrella. In other words, autistic disorder, Asperger’s disorder, and childhood disintegrative disorder are specific forms within the broader category, while pervasive developmental disorder refers to the general grouping described by the DSM. (Note: DSM editions have evolved, with subtypes later consolidated under broader autism-related criteria, but the umbrella term matches the description in this question.)