Changes to the definition of Autism

The American Psychiatry Association (APA) has proposed changes to the definition of autism in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, or the DSM 5, which is currently being revised. According to a statement by the APA, the proposal would eliminate Asperger's Syndrome, PDD-NOS and childhood disintegrative disorder as separate diagnoses to be included in a single category called autism spectrum disorders.

In field trials that are currently being conducted in clinical settings, the APA has reported that they have not found changes in the number of patients receiving care for ASDs. However, an independent study reported recently in the New York Times has found that the changes could lead to fewer children and adults meeting the new criteria and qualifying for services.

The Barber National Institute and other providers are urging parents to learn as much as possible about the changes and share their concerns or comments with the APA. According to the APA website, the group will be having a final opportunity for public comment later this spring.

In the meantime, anyone wishing to share comments can send them to:

American Psychiatric Association
1000 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 1825, Arlington, Va. 22209-3901
phone toll-free: 888.357.7924
email: apa@psych.org

More information is also available at:
http://www.dsm5.org/Pages/Default.aspx
http://blog.autismspeaks.org/2012/01/20/chat-dsm5/

The Barber National Institute has submitted the following statement to the APA:

The Barber National Institute certainly supports the desire of the APA to have criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorders that will lead to a more accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment.  However, we are also concerned that many individuals may lose access to services with this revision.  Because of these services, many individuals with Autism, Asperger's and P.D.D.-NOS have achieved goals that now enable them to live productive lives and be contributing members of society. In our experience over the past two decades, we have seen many children with forms of high functioning autism go on to attend college, find employment and live independently in the community—all because of the intervention they received at an early age.

We ask that before any final decision is made, there is an in depth analysis of the findings of the field trials and review of public comment. Thousands of children and adults could be impacted by these revisions. We ask that you proceed with great caution.