Frameworks and methods in diagnosing autism spectrum disorders

Recent issues and research addressing conceptualizations of diagnostic frameworks for autism spectrum disorders are discussed. Strengths of current systems, including comparability across international criteria, attention to developmental variation, and broader inclusion of individuals with social-communicative dysfunction are highlighted. Controversial issues, including difficulties in identifying thresholds for pervasive developmental disorders other than autism, implications of age of onset, and the appropriateness of diagnostic hierarchies, are also considered. Specific instruments for diagnosis are discussed in terms of current conceptualizations of autism spectrum disorders. MRDD Research Reviews 1998;4:90–96. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

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