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Clinical Definition
DSM-5 criteria for autism.
Two main categories of autism overlap with the above symptoms to create the diagnosis of autism.
The Venn diagram of autism symptoms (above) illustrates the overlapping and distinct features that characterize the condition. In this diagram, there are typically two main circles representing two core aspects of autism: Social Communication and Interaction and Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests.
1. Social Communication and Interaction: This circle includes symptoms related to difficulties in understanding social cues, engaging in reciprocal conversation, and forming relationships. Individuals may struggle with eye contact, body language, and interpreting the emotions of others, which can significantly affect their social interactions.
2. Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests: This circle encompasses behaviors such as repetitive movements that range from mild to more prominent, strict adherence to routines, and intense focus on specific topics or hobbies. These behaviors can provide comfort or a sense of control but may limit flexibility in thinking and adapting to new situations.
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Has trouble engaging in social and emotional interactions with others (such back & forth conversation, sharing interests)
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Uses fewer non-verbal communication cues (such as eye contact, body language or gestures)
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Has more difficulty with establishing, comprehending, and maintaining relationships (such as making friends or joining in on play with others)
at least 2 of the 4
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Repetitive movements, use of objects, or speech
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Insistence on sameness, routines, or rituals
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Fixed interests that are highly intense or focused
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Hyper- or hypo-reactivity to sensory input or an unusual interest in sensory aspects of the environment.
Social
Communication
Repetitive Behaviors, Restricted Interests
Adding to the Diagnosis of Autism
In addition to the autism diagnosis, a licensed assessor may add on another condition that can explain what is going on with that individual. Examples may include one or more of the following:
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Language impairment - whether the individual is able to speak or has issues speaking
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Intellectual impairment - if this was tested during the assessment
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Known medical or genetic condition - genetic testing was done, or there is already a diagnosis of another medical Dx
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Known environment factor - there was an event that caused a condition
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Another neurodevelopmental, mental, or behavioral condition - these should be confirmed through testing
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Catatonia - a rare condition in which the individual has movements issues which come in different forms.