Differential Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Differential Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder provides a framework for clinical considerations and best practices related to diagnosing children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) versus commonly co-occurring conditions. Differential diagnosis is a complex process, and it is common for clinicians to observe symptom overlap between conditions. In this comprehensive text, the authors focus on the similarities and differences between ASD and a second diagnosis. Leading experts provide practical guidance in the diagnostic process for ASD versus a second condition, such as anxiety or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Each chapter includes clinical case studies to provide real-world examples of how clinicians make diagnostic decisions. Ample illustrations and 'decision trees' provide a visual representation of clinical decision-making.

Katherine K.M Stavropoulos, PhD is an Assistant Professor in the School of Education at the University of California, Riverside. She is a licensed clinical psychologist and Assistant Director of the SEARCH Autism Center, which provides free screening and diagnostic services to families in Riverside County and surrounding regions. Dr. Stavropoulos' research program uses neuroscience to measure reward-related brain activity in children and adolescents with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD). James C. McPartland, PhD, is Professor of Child Psychiatry and Psychology at the Yale Child Study Center. He is a licensed child psychologist and Director of the Yale Developmental Disabilities Clinic. Dr. McPartland's program of research investigates the brain bases of neurodevelopmental conditions to develop biologically-based tools to improve detection, treatment, and, ultimately, the quality of life for people with autism and their families.