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Anxiety Disorders and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

  • Anxiety Disorders (A Pelissolo, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This review aims to synthesize the most recent research on anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and discuss the relationship between these conditions and challenges for assessment. Furthermore, implications for treatment and future directions are discussed.

Recent Findings

Research suggests that anxiety disorders and OCD are highly prevalent in individuals with ASD. However, the significant overlap of ASD features with anxiety and OCD symptomology makes differential diagnosis of these disorders particularly challenging. Though several treatments for anxiety have been adapted for youth with ASD (e.g., cognitive behavior therapy), pharmacological treatments and treatments for adults are still marked undeveloped.

Summary

Despite the high prevalence of anxiety disorders and OCD in ASD and some recent advances in assessment and treatment, research is needed to clarify the multifaceted relationship of these conditions and develop tailored assessment and treatment approaches appropriate for a full range of individuals with ASD.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Author notes

  1. Valentina Postorino and Connor M. Kerns have equally contributed.

Authors and Affiliations

  1. The Marcus Autism Center, 1920 Briarcliff Road, NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA

    Valentina Postorino & Jessica Bradshaw

  2. Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 1920 Briarcliff Road, NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA

    Valentina Postorino & Jessica Bradshaw

  3. A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, 3020 Market Street, Suite 560, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-3734, USA

    Connor M. Kerns & Giacomo Vivanti

  4. Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University Hospital of Rome, Rome, Italy

    Martina Siracusano & Luigi Mazzone

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  1. Valentina Postorino
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Correspondence to Luigi Mazzone.

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Valentina Postorino, Giacomo Vivanti, Jessica Bradshaw, Martina Siracusano, and Luigi Mazzone declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

Connor Kerns receives book royalties from Elsevier. Dr. Kerns is owner of Connor M. Kerns, PhD, LCC, which provides training in the ADIS/ASA.

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Postorino, V., Kerns, C.M., Vivanti, G. et al. Anxiety Disorders and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Curr Psychiatry Rep 19, 92 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-017-0846-y

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