Assessment of Autism in Females and Nuanced Presentations: Integrating Research into Practice

This book examines autism characteristics that may be different than expected (atypical), primarily found in females, but also in others and are likely to be missed or misdiagnosed when identification and support are needed. It follows a lifespan framework, guiding readers through comprehensive assessment processes at any age. The book integrates interpretations of standardized measures, information from scientific literature, and context from first-person accounts to provide a more nuanced and sensitive approach to assessment. It addresses implications for improved treatment and supports based on comprehensive assessment processes and includes case studies within each age range to consolidate and illustrate assessment processes. Key areas of coverage include: Interdisciplinary assessment processes, including psychology, speech and language pathology, education, and health care disciplines. Lifespan approach to comprehensive assessment of autism in females/atypical autism. Guide to interpretation of standardized measures in females/atypical autism. Additional assessment tools and processes to provide diagnostic clarity. Descriptions of barriers in diagnostic processes from first-person accounts. Intervention and support strategies tied to assessment data. In-depth explanations of evidence and at-a-glance summaries. Assessment of Autism in Females and Nuanced Presentations is a must-have resource for researchers, professors, and graduate students as well as clinicians, practitioners, and policymakers in developmental and clinical psychology, speech language pathology, medicine, education, social work, mental health, and all interrelated disciplines.