Diagnosis and treatment of children and adolescents with autism and ADHD

Bibliographic Data

ID21375736
AuthorsBurt Hatch (0000-0003-3813-9852, School of Psychology Victoria University of Wellington Wellington New Zealand, corresponding author), Girija Kadlaskar (0000-0002-2217-6678, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and MIND Institute University of California Davis California USA), Meghan Miller (0000-0002-0992-8804, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and MIND Institute University of California Davis California USA)
Year2023
Volume60
Issue2
Pages295-311
Publication date2023-02-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenuePsychology in the Schools (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0033-3085 • E-ISSN: 1520-6807
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1002/pits.22808
PMID37065905
OpenAlexW4303468887
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited107

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism are neurodevelopmental disorders that emerge in childhood. There is increasing recognition that ADHD and autism frequently co‐occur. Yet, questions remain among clinicians regarding the best ways to evaluate and treat co‐occurring autism and ADHD. This review outlines issues relevant to providing evidence‐based practice to individuals and families who may be experiencing difficulties associated with co‐occurring autism and ADHD. After describing the complexities of the co‐occurrence of autism and ADHD, we present practical considerations for best practice assessment and treatment of co‐occurring autism and ADHD. Regarding assessment, this includes considerations for interviewing parents/caregivers and youth, using validated parent and teacher rating scales, conducting cognitive assessments, and conducting behavior observations. Regarding treatment, consideration is given to behavioral management, school‐based interventions, social skills development, and the use of medications. Throughout, we note the quality of evidence that supports a particular component of assessment or treatment, highlighting when evidence is most relevant to those with co‐occurring autism and ADHD across stages of development. In light of the current evidence for assessment and treatment of co‐occurring autism and ADHD, we conclude by outlining practical implications for clinical and educational practice

Autism · Developmental psychology · Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder · Autism Spectrum Disorder Research · Child and Adolescent Psychosocial and Emotional Development · Clinical Psychology · Psychology

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Open DOIOpen Access