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The Spectrum of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Spectrum of Needs, Services, and Challenges

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Abstract

The dramatic rise in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) has resulted in a significant explosion in visibility and a substantial increase in the understanding of this complex group of disorders. Over the last decade, what was once defined only as “autism” has become a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders, with variable presentations and levels of impairment that requires an equally broad continuum of care. A wealth of research has not discovered a single “cause” for ASDs, but rather has found a range of genetic/genomic variations that likely play a significant role in the etiology of these disorders. Routine screening for autism is becoming more common, allowing for more timely diagnosis, and hopefully for earlier entry into appropriate and effective treatment. Although there remains no single ‘‘cure’’, there are treatments available that can improve overall functioning and decrease problematic or interfering symptoms across the full spectrum of this disorder. The wide spectrum of ASD presentations complicates treatment planning, with overall ASD severity a factor in determining type, intensity, and duration of interventions and services. This article presents a two-dimensional model of “ASD severity” that considers both the level of specific ASD symptoms/deficits and the level of cognitive resources/limitations as a framework for understanding needs, challenges, and potentially effective interventions for individuals across the ASD spectrum.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital, Center for Pediatric Behavioral Health, Cleveland, OH, USA

    Vanessa K. Jensen

  2. Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA

    Sarah Cain Spannagel

  3. Cleveland Clinic Willoughby Hills Family Health Center, 2550 SOM Center Road #210, Willoughby Hills, OH, 44094, USA

    Vanessa K. Jensen

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  1. Vanessa K. Jensen
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  2. Sarah Cain Spannagel
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Correspondence to Vanessa K. Jensen.

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Jensen, V.K., Spannagel, S.C. The Spectrum of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Spectrum of Needs, Services, and Challenges. J Contemp Psychother 41, 1–9 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10879-010-9161-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10879-010-9161-1

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