Measuring Depressive Symptoms in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): A Scoping Review

Research indicates a high prevalence of depressive disorders in individuals with autism spectrums disorders (ASD), highlighting a need for depression screening in this population. Both depression screening tools used in the general population and tools developed specifically for individuals with ASD are used in the ASD population. Because depressive symptoms may manifest differently in individuals with ASD, it is important to establish the psychometric properties of depression instruments in individuals with ASD to determine whether and how these instruments can be applied in assessing these individuals.

Our objective was to synthesize knowledge regarding the psychometric properties of (a) depression instruments developed for the general populations and (b) depression instruments developed specifically for individuals with ASD.

A scoping review was conducted using Covidence to identify, screen, and review available literature on the use and psychometric properties of generalized and ASD-specific depression instruments in individuals with ASD.

Results for both generalized and ASD-specific instruments indicated moderate psychometric strength, enough for these instruments to be potentially helpful in psychiatric assessments but not enough to be conclusive on their own. The data are limited by the small number of studies examining this population, that is, only 1 to 3 articles for each instrument, and the often-limited number of psychometric measurements taken in each study.

As the prevalence of depression in individuals with ASD is high, reliable and valid measures are needed. Current research shows some support for existing instruments, although additional, more robust research is needed.