Children and Adolescents with ASD and Co-occurring Psychiatric Conditions

Abstract

Abstract Youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are at increased risk for developing significant co-occurring psychiatric conditions. Although prevalence estimates vary, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are among the most common comorbid conditions. There has been increased interest in the assessment and treatment of these symptoms in youth with ASD, with the majority of studies thus far focusing on anxiety disorders. The present paper reviews the literature on the most common co-occurring psychiatric symptoms in youth with ASD and discusses current trends in intervention for these disorders. Given the numerous challenges involved in the identification of psychiatric conditions in youth with ASD, general guidelines for the assessment of psychiatric symptoms in youth with ASD will be provided. Information regarding the prevalence and specific assessment strategies for each mental health condition precedes a review of intervention programs. Although not specific to a single psychiatric condition, difficulties in emotion regulation are thought to underlie many of the social/emotional and behavioral difficulties characteristic of youth with ASD. Thus, the emerging research on emotion regulation interventions is also reviewed. Finally, it is important to note that the treatment programs presented in this paper have almost exclusively been developed and delivered in university-based clinic settings. Recommendations for bridging the research to practice gap for youth with ASD are discussed.