Abstract
The transition to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) has evoked both excitement and trepidation within the fields of clinical practice and research in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This commentary provides an overview of specific changes in autism spectrum criteria from the DSM, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV-TR) to DSM-5. We discuss the advantages of DSM-5 classification of ASD, emphasizing its strong empirical foundation, its accessibility in incorporating current and forthcoming neurobiological findings, and its flexible, example-based criteria intended to improve identification across life span, gender, ethnicity, and culture. We also respond to notable concerns surrounding these new diagnostic criteria. For example, we offer an encouraging perspective on the controversial omission of the Asperger disorder category and potential ASD prevalence changes as a result of the shift from DSM-IV to DSM-5. This chapter closes with a discussion of questions that remain for future research.
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Lord, C., Gotham, K. (2014). DSM-5 and ASD: Reflections and Commentary. In: Davis III, T., White, S., Ollendick, T. (eds) Handbook of Autism and Anxiety. Autism and Child Psychopathology Series. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-06796-4_17
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