Early Diagnostic Assessment

Abstract

This chapter first presents the diagnostic characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as per the DSM-5, briefly discusses the factors hypothesized to be contributing to the rising ASD prevalence and obstacles to obtaining an accurate ASD diagnosis. The most common ASD diagnostic procedures are then described and the pros and cons as well as the available psychometric data are presented in a table that enables comparison across approaches. Recent research investigating novel approaches that facilitate earlier in life diagnosis is then reviewed. The chapter concludes with suggestions for future research and guidance for practitioners. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)