Below is an instruction from Human. Write a response.
    ### Instruction:
    What is (are) Autism Spectrum Disorder ?
    ### Response:
    Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that begins early in childhood and lasts throughout a person's life. It affects how a person acts and interacts with others, communicates, and learns. It includes what used to be known as Asperger syndrome and pervasive developmental disorders.
    