Have Your Say On How Autism Should Be Defined!

The very definition of Autism has been a matter of great debate as of late with the impending publication of The American Psychiatric Association's (APA) fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). DSM is the handbook used by health care professionals as an authoritative guide to the diagnosis of mental disorders.

My previous blog on the subject, which I continue to update with current information, reveals that many parents and professionals alike are worried about the potential ramifications of the Association's proposed changes. Many are concerned that funding eligibility will be compromised. Others question what will become of those individuals currently diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, or Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified, as both diagnoses would no longer exist under the proposed revisions.

Have your say!

For a third and final time, the APA issued a press release, inviting members of the public to submit feedback about the proposed changes. A review of the modified diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder can be found on the APA's DSM-5 Development website, and comments can be submitted online. Note that the deadline for submissions is June 15, 2012.

What's your opinion?

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