Should the DSM V drop Asperger syndrome?
The DSM IV defines Asperger syndrome (AS) as a pervasive developmental (autistic spectrum) disorder characterized by social deficits and rigid focused interests in the absence of language impairment and cognitive delay. Since its inclusion in the DSM-IV, there has been a dramatic increase in its recognition both in children and adults. However, because studies have generally failed to demonstrate a clear distinction between AS and autism, some researchers have called for its elimination from the forthcoming DSM V. This report argues for a modification of its diagnostic criteria and its continued retention in the diagnostic manual.
Ghaziuddin
Mohammad
M
University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0277, USA. mghaziud@umich.edu
D000328:Adult; D017668:Age of Onset; D020817:Asperger Syndrome / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003142:Communication; D039721:Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; D006801:Humans; D007360:Intelligence; D012919:Social Behavior