lifespan: Clinical observations in adults with
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) includes early-onset developmental
disorders characterized by symptoms ranging from impaired social
communication skills, stereotyped behaviors, impairment in social
interactions, to poor language development. Although the autistic
condition is stable across the life span, a substantial number of adult
ASD patients may be undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as having other
mental disorders. Twenty-three ASD adult patients underwent clinical
examination and were assessed by the following psychodiagnostic
instruments: the RAADS-R, the Y-BOCS, and the Rorschach inkblot test.
The mean RAADS total score was higher than cut-off threshold (126 ±
43; cutoff = 65). Y-BOCS total scores were moderately high (21 ± 9;
cutoff = 7). Rorschach protocols were characterized by a mean
productivity (number of responses: 23 ± 12), a concrete intelligence with
traits of meticulousness (D = 39%, Dd = 8%), inaccurate formal
perception with falls of representation (F- > F+), poor attention to
human contents, and perseveration and devitalization as particular
phenomena. Adult ASD patients are characterized by peculiar
psychopathological features that can be effectively investigated with the
use of both psychometric and projective methods. An accurate
investigation of behavioral and clinical features and personality traits,
should integrate the diagnostic pathway of those adult subjects often
presenting with comorbid psychiatric disorders and symptoms
heterogeneity.
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