Which developmental disorder might have onset during early childhood?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is recognized in the DSM-5 as having its onset during early childhood, typically before the age of three. Children diagnosed with ASD exhibit challenges in social communication and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. These symptoms are often noticeable even in infancy and become increasingly observable as the child grows and develops, making early diagnosis crucial for intervention and support.

In contrast, the other disorders listed tend to present later in development. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder can develop during childhood but are more commonly recognized in later childhood or adolescence. Major Depressive Disorder can occur in children but also tends to manifest more clearly in later childhood or adulthood. Thus, Autism Spectrum Disorder stands out as the developmental disorder specifically linked to early childhood onset.