As Diverse as the Autism Spectrum

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder can be identified at an early age thanks to its characteristic symptoms; however, some of these may go unnoticed by families who lack information in this area, and who often require significant emotional support after receiving a diagnosis. Although these symptoms are typically recognized in three core domains, there are other diverse and atypical manifestations that fall outside the norm, which led to the update of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 2013. The heterogeneity of autism cases is vast and demands the use of new concepts to ensure accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment, a practice encouraged by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.