Psychopathology In Adolescents And Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorders

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis, management and treatment of the psychiatric comorbidities encountered in adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). After discussing key issues in diagnosing ASD in adolescents and adults, the opening part of the book examines the genetics, neuroimaging and neuropsychology of ASD. Several chapters are then devoted to all of the psychiatric comorbidities such as psychosis, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, eating disorders etc. For each disorder, the clinical symptoms, biological basis, diagnostic criteria and treatment options are described in detail. In addition, a special chapter is devoted to people with intellectual disabilities. Thanks to its clear approach, Psychopathology in Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders will be an invaluable resource for psychiatrists, psychologists and neuropsychiatrists, as well as allied mental health professionals, caring for these patients.

The research on children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is extensive and growing. Although these conditions are recognized as affecting the entire lifespan, the literature on ASD after childhood is limited and has not been brought together in a single volume in over a decade. Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders fills this knowledge gap by focusing on needs and difficulties unique to these stages of development. Expert contributors offer cogent reviews of complex issues, from education to employment, leisure activities to illegal behaviors, mental health issues to medical health concerns. The latest findings in key areas, such as psychosocial and residential treatments, social skills programs, epidemiology, the impact of ASD on families, are examined in detail. Throughout the volume, coverage focuses on areas requiring improved models of assessment, updated data, new interventions and increased support services. Featured topics include: Transition from high school to adulthood for adolescents and young adults with ASD. Innovative programming to support college students with ASD. Romantic relationships, sexuality and ASD. Treatment of mental health comorbidities. Assessment and treatment planning in adults with ASD. The range of outcomes and challenges in middle and later life. Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders is a must-have reference for a wide range of clinicians and practitioners – as well as researchers and graduate students – in clinical child, school and developmental psychology; child and adolescent psychiatry; social work; rehabilitation medicine/therapy; education and general practice/family medicine. It will also serve as an important resource for parents and caregivers with its focus on translating the current state of knowledge relevant to understanding adolescents and adults with ASD into practical and relevant recommendations on how best to support them.

Bringing together leading experts, this book presents effective practices for helping people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to thrive in adulthood. As individuals with ASD mature, their needs change as well. The book reviews the growing research base and describes ways to support adolescents and adults in succeeding in higher education and work, living independently, enjoying leisure activities, navigating meaningful personal relationships, and more. Specific behavioral and instructional interventions--such as functional communication training, positive behavior support, and applied behavior analysis--are discussed. Case examples illustrate practical aspects of applying the strategies in real-world school and community settings.

This book evaluates how autism is experienced and addressed in four areas critical to the developmental phase of adulthood: self-awareness, individuality, comprehensive support systems, and the dissemination of information and expanded education. The editors present comprehensive coverage of new developments in the field of adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly with regards to the updating of diagnostic criteria in the DSM-5 and an increased level of interest in research on adults with ASD. Contributors also make recommendations regarding services that should be provided to people with ASD based on recognition of their needs, the frequent lack of accessibility to relevant services, and an understanding of how a person's living situation both influences and is influenced by the way they conduct their lives. Among the topics discussed: The distinctive stage of Emerging Adulthood in individuals with ASD Late diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder Sexuality and romantic relationships among people with ASD Parents, siblings, and communities of individuals with ASD Cultural-demographic influences on life choices among people with ASD Adult women on the high-functioning autism spectrum The experience of academia and employment for people with ASD Autism in Adulthood is a unique resource for professionals, clinicians, researchers and caregivers that emphasizes both theoretical and practical information regarding ASD in the critical adult stage of life.

In this book a group of international experts guide the reader through the clinical features of adults with autism spectrum disorders, describe the care needs of patients and their families, explain the evolution of the disorders into old age, and highlight what can be done to help. Detailed attention is paid to the medical and psychiatric problems of adults with these disorders and the approach to their education and professional integration. In addition, expert neuroscientists summarize current views on the neurobiology of autism. Autism spectrum disorders are devastating neurodevelopmental disorders. Although diagnosis and therapeutic interventions usually take place in infancy, they are chronic lifelong conditions. Surprisingly, the literature on autism spectrum disorders in adults is scarce. Moreover, most mental health professionals working with adults have little training in autism, and adult mental health services around the world are rarely prepared to address the needs of these patients, which tend to increase with age. This book therefore fills a crucial gap in the literature and will prove useful for all who care for and deal with adults in the Autistic Spectrum.

This volume examines repetitive and restrictive behaviors and interests (RRBIs) affecting individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The various aspects of RRBIs, an umbrella term for a broad class of behaviors linked by repetition, rigidity, invariance, and inappropriateness to place and context are reviewed by an international team of expert leaders in the field. Key topics of coverage include: Neurological Mechanisms Underlying Repetitive: Animal and human models Underlying mechanisms of RRBs across typical and atypical development The relationship between RRBI and other characteristics of ASD (communication, social, sensory aspects) RRBIs and adults with ASD Diagnosing RRBIs An RRBI intervention model The book bridges the gap between the neurobiological and neurocognitive bodies of knowledge in relation to RRBIs and their behavioral aspects and examines associations with other domains of ASD. In addition, the volume addresses related assessment and treatment of RRBI in ASD. This is an essential resource for researchers, graduate students, clinicians and related therapists and professionals in developmental psychology, behavioral therapy/rehabilitation, social work, clinical child and school psychology, child and adolescent psychiatry, pediatrics, occupational therapy and special education.