Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026
05:32
Comparing Eye-tracking Data of Children with High-functioning ASD, Comorbid ADHD, and of a Control Watching Social Videos
Published on: December 7, 2018
[Attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder in autism spectrum disorders]
Cecilia Montiel-Nava1, Joaquín A Peña
1Departamento de Psicología, Escuela de Educación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela. ceciliamontiel@gmail.com
Investigacion Clinica
|August 27, 2011
Summary
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) often show symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity. Recognizing this as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) comorbidity can improve treatment plans and adaptive functioning outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Child Psychiatry
Context:
- Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) frequently present with symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity, as noted in the DSM-IV-TR.
- Current diagnostic criteria in DSM-IV-TR exclude Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the presence of an ASD diagnosis.
- This exclusion has sparked debate regarding the necessity of maintaining separate diagnostic categories.
Purpose:
- To explore the implications of considering inattention and hyperactivity in individuals with ASD as indicative of comorbid ADHD.
- To advocate for a better understanding of the comorbidity between ASD and ADHD to inform intervention strategies.
Summary:
- Clinical observations and assessments confirm the high prevalence of inattention and hyperactivity symptoms in children with ASD.
- The proposed DSM-V criteria remove the exclusion of ADHD in individuals with ASD, reflecting a shift in diagnostic understanding.
- Reclassifying these symptoms as comorbid ADHD could lead to more tailored and effective treatment plans.
Impact:
- Improved diagnostic accuracy for children presenting with overlapping symptoms of ASD and ADHD.
- Enhanced treatment efficacy, leading to better adaptive functioning outcomes for affected individuals.
- Informing future diagnostic manuals and clinical guidelines for neurodevelopmental disorders.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
01:30Oppositional Defiant Disorder
A persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness characterizes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Symptoms must occur over at least six months, involve interactions with individuals beyond siblings, and meet specific diagnostic criteria to be clinically significant. The disorder affects emotional regulation, social interactions, and behavior, often manifesting early in life and influencing long-term development and functioning.
Diagnostic Criteria and...
Diagnostic Criteria and...
01:28Conduct Disorder
Conduct disorder is a complex mental health diagnosis characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms, the rights of others, or age-appropriate rules. The diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder require the presence of at least three problematic behaviors within the past 12 months, with at least one occurring in the past six months. These behaviors are grouped into four categories: aggression toward people and animals; destruction of property;...
01:28Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterized by an intense fear of social situations where one might face humiliation, rejection, embarrassment, or negative evaluation. This disorder leads individuals to avoid activities like casual conversations, public speaking, or seemingly simple tasks such as eating, signing documents, or swimming, in public settings. Its impact extends beyond discomfort, often significantly interfering with daily functioning and quality of life.