Similarly, adults with ASD have been shown to demonstrate deficits in processing speed and verbal reasoning subtests of the WAIS-IV, as well as inconsistent skills on perceptual reasoning tasks. A recent systematic review examining multiple versions of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) in youth with ASD identified common patterns of cognitive functioning, including the “islets of ability” profile (i.e., low verbal comprehension scores and high visual-spatial and working memory scores ) in those with Full-Scale IQ (FSIQ) scores ≤ 85 and the “right-descending” profile (i.e., high verbal comprehension and visual-spatial scores and low processing speed scores) in those with FSIQ scores ≥ 86. Depending on the individual’s age, the Wechsler subtests examine verbal comprehension, visual-spatial reasoning, fluid reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. The Wechsler Intelligence Scales are among the most frequently used measures for assessing intelligence. The prevalence of comorbid ID has been shown to vary depending on demographic variables (e.g., location, race/ethnicity) and methodology used to assess IQ, underscoring the need for clinicians to understand the tests best suited to assess IQ in autistic individuals at varying levels of ability. Impairment in cognitive functioning is widely recognized as a common feature of ASD, as well as a predictor of long-term outcomes. This paper provides an overview of recent literature and concludes with recommendations for the development of appropriate neuropsychological testing protocols. In order to fill this assessment gap, it is critical for clinicians to understand the utility and appropriate application of various neuropsychological assessments for use in individuals with ASD at varying levels of ability and to gain competence in proper interpretation based on research using neuropsychological assessments in this population. Clinically, many ASD-focused evaluations include measures such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R), along with a measure of IQ and adaptive behavior as a standard evaluation protocol however, fewer individuals on the autism spectrum are administered more traditional neuropsychological assessments leaving domains such as memory, attention, and other executive functions less frequently characterized. The complexity of presentation that results from a broad spectrum of functioning, and varied behavioral and emotional presentations, can make the neuropsychological assessment process for individuals with ASD challenging and at times overlooked. Furthermore, an estimated 60–70% of children and 69–79% of adults with ASD meet criteria for at least one comorbid psychiatric condition, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, or other mood disorders. While many individuals on the autism spectrum demonstrate average to above average intellectual functioning, approximately 30% also meet criteria for intellectual disability (ID).

In addition to core symptoms of ASD, this heterogenous population presents with a wide range of abilities.

Tools and methods for developing appropriate neuropsychological testing protocols for individuals with ASD are discussed.Īutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted, repetitive behaviors. SummaryĬlarifying the relationship between ASD symptoms and neuropsychological functioning is critical for differential diagnosis and for optimal treatment planning. Recent findings related to intellectual, adaptive, executive, attentional, social, language, motor, and autism-specific functioning are reviewed.

Individuals with ASD demonstrate unique patterns of neuropsychological functioning across various domains. Here we provide an overview of neuropsychological domains as they relate to the evaluation of individuals with ASD. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) present with varied clinical presentations, which can make the design of testing batteries and subsequent interpretation of results challenging. Such assessments are used to characterize areas of strength and weakness, inform differential diagnosis, guide treatment planning, and evaluate change over time. Neuropsychological assessment involves the comprehensive evaluation of intellectual, attentional, executive, social-cognitive, language, and motor functioning.

Autism spectrum disorder testing