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Part of the book series: Autism and Child Psychopathology Series ((ACPS))

Abstract

Although ASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder, considerably less emphasis has been paid to assessing, understanding, monitoring and supporting the development of individuals with ASD throughout later adolescence and adulthood. Outcomes in adulthood for many individuals with ASD are so far reported to be poor, although highly variable, while little is known about the developmental trajectory of ASD in middle and older adulthood. One important reason for assessment in adulthood is the diagnosis of ASD in previously unidentified adults. Another important aim of assessment in adulthood is the monitoring of functioning, strengths and needs of adults with existing childhood diagnoses, so as to improve individualized support. This Chapter reviews current approaches to the assessment process in adulthood and critically reflects on gaps, limitations and areas for further improvement.

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Correspondence to Iliana Magiati Ph.D., D.Clin.Psy. .

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Magiati, I. (2016). Assessment in Adulthood. In: Matson, J.L. (eds) Handbook of Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism and Child Psychopathology Series. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-27171-2_11

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