In the DSM-5, four previously separate disorders that share a set of social and behavioral characteristics have been reclassified under the umbrella term of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

 

The ASD label encompasses: 

• Autism 

• Asperger’s Disorder (or Syndrome)

• Child Disintegrative Disorder 

• Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD-NOS) 

 

Viewing these disorders as points on a spectrum allows clinicians to differentiate behavior according to severity and the need for intervention or support . Although children can be diagnosed with ASD regardless of race/ethnicity or socioeconomic status, the rate of occurrence for males is fourfold that of females (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, 2009).

 

Those receiving a diagnosis will be classified based on trait severity (mild to extreme). For example, a child who is nonverbal (extreme) would be diagnosed differently than a child who previously would have been labeled as high-functioning or as having Asperger's Syndrome (mild ASD). Children diagnosed with PDD-NOS or Asperger’s Syndrome may be assigned a different diagnosis when re-evaluated. The DSM-5 states that those with the pre-existing DSM-IV diagnosis of an autism-related disorder “should be given the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder” (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).  

 

While this may come as a surprise to parents, the revision criteria is supported by empirical research. In a study of 5,143 children with and without PDD diagnoses, 91% of those diagnosed with PDD according to the DSM-IV met the DSM-5 classification for ASD (Huerta et al., 2012). The diagnositic criteria was refined to reduce variability in how clinicians interpret potential symptoms of ASD, thereby providing your child with a more accurate evaluation.

 

 

To learn about changes to ASD symptoms, click