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Beazley P. Excluding autism or excluding everything? The problem of broad definitions in the England and Wales Draft Mental Health Bill. BJPsych Bull 2024; 48:187-191. [PMID: 37408479 DOI: 10.1192/bjb.2023.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent Draft Mental Health Bill for England and Wales proposes changes to the Mental Health Act 1983 which will include, for the first time, a legal definition of autism. This article explores the specific potential issue that the definition, owing to its breadth, potentially encompasses a number of conditions other than autism, consequently leaving the definitionally dependent concept of 'psychiatric disorder' significantly narrowed in scope. The potential implications of this - primarily the concern that a range of other conditions and presentations could be unintentionally excluded from the scope of the civil powers in the Mental Health Act - are discussed.
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Gu X, Banker S, Schafer M, Harrington M, Na S, Barkley S, Trayvick J, Peters A, Thinakaran A, Foss-Feig J, Schiller D. Phenotypical divergence between self-reported and clinically ascertained autism. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4314472. [PMID: 38766168 PMCID: PMC11100871 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4314472/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
While allowing for rapid recruitment of large samples, online psychiatric and neurodevelopmental research relies heavily on participants' self-report of neuropsychiatric symptoms, foregoing the rigorous clinical characterization of laboratory settings. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) research is one example where the clinical validity of such an approach remains elusive. Here, we compared participants characterized online via self-reports against in-person participants evaluated by clinicians. Despite having comparable self-reported autism symptoms, the online high-trait group reported significantly more social anxiety and avoidant behavior than in-person ASD subjects. Within the in-person sample, there was no relationship between self-rated and clinician-rated autism symptoms, suggesting these approaches may capture different aspects of ASD. The online high-trait and in-person ASD participants also differed in their behavior in well-validated social decision-making tasks: the in-person group perceived having less social control and acted less affiliative towards virtual characters. Our study aimed to draw comparisons at three levels: methodological platform (online versus in-person), symptom measurement (self- versus clinician-report), and social behavior. We identified a lack of agreement between self- and clinician-rated measures of symptoms and divergent social tendencies in groups ascertained by each method, highlighting the need for differentiation between in-person versus online samples in autism research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosi Gu
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
| | | | | | | | - Soojung Na
- Center for Computational Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
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Blay M, Duarte M, Dessouli MA, Durpoix A, Rüfenacht E, Weibel S, Speranza M, Perroud N. Proposition of a transdiagnostic processual approach of emotion dysregulation based on core triggers and interpersonal styles. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1260138. [PMID: 38384590 PMCID: PMC10879599 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1260138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Emotion dysregulation (ED) has primarily been described in patients suffering from borderline personality disorder (BPD) and is an integral part of this diagnosis, but it is also a transdiagnostic construct that can be found in several other psychiatric disorders. The strong relationships between ED and BPD may lead clinicians to underestimate ED associated to other clinical contexts. This can lead to difficulties in diagnostic and treatment orientation, especially in the context of comorbidities. In this article, after reviewing the literature on the development and functioning of emotion dysregulation, and on the evidence for emotion dysregulation in eight disorders (borderline personality disorder, pathological narcissism with/without narcissistic personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, and adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), we present a transdiagnostic processual model of emotion dysregulation based on core triggers and interpersonal styles to try to address this issue and to provide a simple but technical tool to help clinicians in their diagnostic assessment and treatment orientation. By focusing more on typical patterns and interpersonal dynamics than only on categories, we believe that this model may contribute to the actual need for improvement of our current psychiatric classifications, alongside other well-studied and under-used dimensional models of psychopathology (e.g., HiTOP, AMPD), and may be useful to build more specific treatment frameworks for patients suffering from ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Blay
- ADDIPSY, Addictology and Psychiatry Outpatient Center, Santé Basque Développement Group, Lyon, France
- Centre de recherche en Epidemiologie et Sante des Populations Team ‘DevPsy’, INSERM, Universite Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Villejuif, France
| | - Miguel Duarte
- Psychiatric Specialties Unit, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marie-Alix Dessouli
- Department of Emergency Psychiatry, University Hospital Edouard Herriot, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Amaury Durpoix
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospitals of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Eva Rüfenacht
- Psychiatric Specialties Unit, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sébastien Weibel
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospitals of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- U1114, INSERM, Strasbourg, France
| | - Mario Speranza
- Centre de recherche en Epidemiologie et Sante des Populations Team ‘DevPsy’, INSERM, Universite Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Villejuif, France
- University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Versailles Hospital Center, Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, France
| | - Nader Perroud
- Psychiatric Specialties Unit, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Vuijk R, Turner W, Zimmerman D, Walker H, Dandachi-FitzGerald B. Schema therapy in adults with autism spectrum disorder: A scoping review. Clin Psychol Psychother 2024. [PMID: 38214936 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schema therapy (ST) in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have gained increasing interest in clinical practice and research. However, to date, there has been no synthesis of the literature on ST as treatment for adults with ASD. Through a scoping review, we aim to summarize the emerging research and literature on ST for adults with ASD. METHODS A comprehensive literature search of three electronic databases was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Publications were included that examined ST in adults with ASD and non-clinical adults with autistic traits. RESULTS Systematic searches identified a total of 11 publications, all published since 2014, with the majority being conducted by Dutch and Japanese researchers. Of the 11 publications, 1 described an ST-informed social interaction training, 1 was an ST protocol, 2 described conceptual ST models, 2 were case examples, 2 examined early maladaptive schemas (EMSs) and 3 investigated the effectiveness of ST interventions. In summary, the theoretical exploration, practical examples of the application of ST and research findings with preliminary evidence of ST, EMSs and schema modes (SMs) in adults with ASD point towards the potential of ST for the treatment of adults with ASD. DISCUSSION The current scoping review highlights preliminary research findings and offers valuable suggestions for clinicians treating adults with ASD. This review underscores the need for development of and research in specialized ST protocols and programmes tailored to adults with ASD with chronic mental conditions, such as personality disorders (PDs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Vuijk
- Sarr Autism Rotterdam (Parnassia Psychiatric Institute), Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wesley Turner
- Minds & Hearts, Stones Corner, Queensland, Australia
- University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David Zimmerman
- Minds & Hearts, Stones Corner, Queensland, Australia
- University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Hugh Walker
- Minds & Hearts, Stones Corner, Queensland, Australia
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5
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Broglia G, Nisticò V, Di Paolo B, Faggioli R, Bertani A, Gambini O, Demartini B. Traits of narcissistic vulnerability in adults with autism spectrum disorders without intellectual disabilities. Autism Res 2024; 17:138-147. [PMID: 37983956 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), considering the dimensions of narcissistic grandiosity and vulnerability, represents an important differential diagnosis and potential ground of comorbidity, since both conditions show high grades of pervasiveness, a life-long course, ego-syntonic traits, and difficulties in building up and sustaining interpersonal relationships Although the co-diagnosis rates, according to the categorical criteria in use, are limited (0%-6.4%), it is common to encounter diagnostic doubts in clinical practice. Here we investigated the dimensions of narcissistic vulnerability and grandiosity in a sample of 87 adults diagnosed with ASD without intellectual disabilities through the administration of the Pathological Narcissism Inventory-52 Items (PNI-52). The mean scores of our sample were compared with the normative distribution available in the literature, and we found that individuals with ASD scored significantly higher than neurotypical controls at the Total Score and at the Vulnerable Narcissism subscale, but not at the Grandiose Narcissism subscales. Demographic features did not influence these results. Vulnerable narcissism was significantly associated with the "Ritvo Autism and Asperger Diagnostic Scale - Revised" subscale Social Relatedness. These findings could potentially be indicative of a greater comorbidity rate between the two disorders with respect to the one reported to date, possibly because DSM-5 criteria are mainly focused on the grandiose dimension. Potential explanatory links between ASD phenomenology and vulnerable narcissism, such as the personality dimension of neuroticism, are discussed, together with the possible role of narcissistic vulnerability in mediating internalizing symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression) in individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Broglia
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Veronica Nisticò
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- "Aldo Ravelli" Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Dipartimento di Psicologia, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Bianca Di Paolo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Faggioli
- Unità di Psichiatria 52, Dipartimento Salute Mentale e Dipendenze, Presidio San Paolo, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Bertani
- Centro Giovani "Ettore Ponti", Dipartimento Salute Mentale e Dipendenze, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Orsola Gambini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- "Aldo Ravelli" Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Unità di Psichiatria 52, Dipartimento Salute Mentale e Dipendenze, Presidio San Paolo, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Benedetta Demartini
- "Aldo Ravelli" Research Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Unità di Psichiatria 52, Dipartimento Salute Mentale e Dipendenze, Presidio San Paolo, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
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Gusso D, Prauchner GRK, Rieder AS, Wyse ATS. Biological Pathways Associated with Vitamins in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neurotox Res 2023; 41:730-740. [PMID: 37864660 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-023-00674-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by early-appearing social communication deficits, with genetic and environmental factors potentially playing a role in its etiology, which remains largely unknown. During pregnancy, certain deficiencies in critical nutrients are mainly associated with central nervous system impairment. The vitamin B9 (folate) is primarily related to one-carbon and methionine metabolism, participating in methyl donor generation. In addition, supplementation with folic acid (FA) is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the first three gestational months to prevent neural tube defects. Vitamin B12 is related to folate regeneration, converting it into an active form. Deficiencies in this vitamin have a negative impact on cognitive function and brain development since it is involved in myelin synthesis. Vitamin D is intimately associated with Ca2+ levels, acting in bone development and calcium-dependent signaling. This vitamin is associated with ASD at several levels since it has a relation with ASD genes and oxidative stress environment. This review carries the recent literature about the role of folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin D in ASD. In addition, we discuss the possible impact of nutrient deficiency or hypersupplementation during fetal development. On the other hand, we explore the biases of vitamin supplementation studies such as the loss of participants in retrospective studies, as well as multiple variants that are not considered in the conclusion, like dietary intake or auto-medication during pregnancy. In this regard, we aim to contribute to the discussion about the role of vitamins in ASD currency, but also in pregnancy and fetal development as well. Furthermore, stress during pregnancy can be an ASD predisposition, with cortisol as a regulator. In this view, we propose that cortisol is the bridge of susceptibility between vitamin disorders and ASD prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darlan Gusso
- Neuroprotection and Neurometabolic Diseases Laboratory (Wyse's Lab), Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, Zip Code 90035003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Gustavo Ricardo Krupp Prauchner
- Neuroprotection and Neurometabolic Diseases Laboratory (Wyse's Lab), Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, Zip Code 90035003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Schmitt Rieder
- Neuroprotection and Neurometabolic Diseases Laboratory (Wyse's Lab), Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, Zip Code 90035003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Angela T S Wyse
- Neuroprotection and Neurometabolic Diseases Laboratory (Wyse's Lab), Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, Zip Code 90035003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Ferrara R, Ricci P, Damato FM, Iovino L, Ricci L, Cicinelli G, Simeoli R, Keller R. Pregnancy in autistic women and social medical considerations: scoping review and meta- synthesis. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1222127. [PMID: 37965368 PMCID: PMC10641492 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1222127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction This article addresses a topic that has been largely overlooked by scientific literature, namely pregnancy in autistic women. Generally, the issue of sexuality in disability, particularly in disabled women, autistic or otherwise, has been underexplored. However, it is necessary to scientifically investigate this topic to propose adequate social and health policies. Therefore, we chose to conduct a scoping review to answer three main questions: "What does it mean for an autistic woman to be pregnant?"; "How do these two conditions coexist?"; "Are health services prepared to receive this population adequately or does autism become a stigma for pregnant women?" Methods We conducted a systematic review and qualitative thematic synthesis following the Preferred Reporting Guidelines for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses on autistic women and pregnancy in the last 10 years. Results The studies included in our review are 7, extremely diverse in terms of methodologies and sample sizes. Despite the heterogeneity of samples and methodologies, all research tends to highlight the following results. For autistic women during pregnancy, three areas seem to be the most difficult: sensory issues, mood disorders, and relationships with specialists. Discussion Our study found that women with ASD face unique challenges during childbirth that differ from those of neurotypical women. Participants often felt belittled, ignored, and uninformed about the care they received, and being placed at the centre of attention was often seen as negative and hindering rather than positive. However, the research shows us how some "expected" results, such as difficulties in breastfeeding, have been disproven.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Ferrara
- Department of Anatomy Histology, Legal Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale Ricci
- Department of Anatomy Histology, Legal Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Felice Marco Damato
- Department of Anatomy Histology, Legal Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Lidia Ricci
- Department of Anatomy Histology, Legal Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cicinelli
- Adult Autism Center, Mental Health Department, Local Health Unit ASL Città di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Roberta Simeoli
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Neapolisanit Research and Rehabilitation Center srl, Ottaviano, Italy
| | - Roberto Keller
- Adult Autism Center, Mental Health Department, Local Health Unit ASL Città di Torino, Turin, Italy
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Bemmouna D, Weiner L. Linehan's biosocial model applied to emotion dysregulation in autism: a narrative review of the literature and an illustrative case conceptualization. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1238116. [PMID: 37840783 PMCID: PMC10570453 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1238116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Emotion dysregulation (ED) is a transdiagnostic difficulty prevalent in autism spectrum condition (ASC). Importantly, recent research has suggested that ED is involved in self-harm and suicidality. Pre-existing models on the etiology of ED in ASC focus mainly on biological factors to ASC features, such as sensory sensitivities, poor flexibility, and sensitivity to change. However, although psychosocial factors seem to play a role in the emergence of ED in ASC as well (e.g., childhood maltreatment and camouflaging), there is a lack of a comprehensive model conceptualizing biosocial factors involved in ED in autistic people. Linehan's biosocial model (1993) is one of the leading etiological models of ED in borderline personality disorder (BPD). It conceptualizes ED as emerging from transactions between a pre-existing emotional vulnerability in the child and an invalidating developmental environment. Beyond its clinical relevance, Linehan's model has gathered empirical evidence supporting its pertinence in BPD and in other psychiatric disorders. Although ASC and BPD are two distinct diagnoses, because they may share ED, Linehan's biosocial model might be useful for understanding the development of ED in ASC. Hence, this article aims to provide an application and extension of Linehan's model to conceptualize ED in ASC. To do so, we conducted a narrative review of the literature on ED and its underlying factors in ASC from a developmental perspective. To investigate the pertinence of the biosocial model applied to ED in autistic people, we were interested on data on (i) ED and its behavioral correlates in ASC, in relation to the biosocial model, (ii) the potential biological and psychosocial correlates of ED in ASC and (iii) the overlapping difficulties in ASC and BPD. Finally, to assess the pertinence of the model, we applied it to the case of an autistic woman presenting with ED and suicidal behaviors. Our review and application to the case of an autistic woman suggest that ED in ASC encompasses factors related to both biological and psychosocial risk factors as conceptualized in the BPD framework, although in both domains ASC-specific factors might be involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doha Bemmouna
- Faculté de Psychologie, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Luisa Weiner
- Faculté de Psychologie, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Département de Psychiatrie Adulte, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, Alsace, France
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Hofvander B, Nilsson T, Ståhlberg O, Claesdotter E, Moberg P, Ahlbäck K, Hildebrand Karlén M. Autism Spectrum Disorders in forensic psychiatric investigations-patterns of comorbidity and criminality. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1168572. [PMID: 37621970 PMCID: PMC10444990 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1168572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There are contradictory research findings regarding whether individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are more or less likely to commit crimes. The aims of the current study were to: (1) Describe psychiatric and crime-related characteristics of a large group of offenders with ASD who had undergone a Forensic Psychiatric Investigation (FPI). (2) Identify clinical subgroups among this group of offenders. (3) Investigate associations between the identified clinical subgroups and (a) psychiatric comorbidity (b) types of crimes and (c) criminal responsibility. Methods The study cohort consists of all subjects (n = 831) who received an ASD-diagnosis at an FPI between 2002 and 2018 in Sweden. Descriptive and clinical, as well as crime related variables were obtained from the FPIs. Non-parametric (Pearson χ2, Fisher's exact and Mann-Whitney U-test) inferential statistics were used for analyses of between-group differences and effect sizes were reported. A Latent Class Analysis was used to identify homogeneous subgroups (or classes) from categorical characteristics. Results The cohort consisted of 708 men and 123 women, aged 18 to 74 yrs. Two-thirds (66.7%) of the cohort had at least one other psychiatric diagnosis, the most prevalent was substance use disorder (SUD). A severe mental disorder, equivalent to lack of criminal responsibility, was most often reported among offenders with a comorbid diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorder. The most common type of crime was violent crime. Three person-oriented clinical subgroups were identified; (1) ASD with few other diagnoses; (2) ASD and very high levels of SUDs, plus moderate levels of other externalizing disorders and psychotic psychopathology and (3) ASD and moderate to high levels of personality disorders (other than ASPD) and SUDs. Conclusion Our results highlight the importance of all parts of the CJS to be prepared to handle offenders with ASD, often with high levels of additional psychiatric problems. Traditional approaches in treatment or other psychosocial interventions for ASD may need to be adapted to at least three general clinical profiles- one with mainly neurodevelopmental problems, one with a spectrum of externalizing problems and one with complex personality related difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Hofvander
- Lund Clinical Research on Externalizing and Developmental Psychopathology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Region Skåne, Trelleborg, Sweden
- Centre of Ethics, Law and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Thomas Nilsson
- Centre of Ethics, Law and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ola Ståhlberg
- Centre of Ethics, Law and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Emma Claesdotter
- Lund Clinical Research on Externalizing and Developmental Psychopathology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Patricia Moberg
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Region Skåne, Trelleborg, Sweden
| | - Klara Ahlbäck
- Lund Clinical Research on Externalizing and Developmental Psychopathology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Malin Hildebrand Karlén
- Centre of Ethics, Law and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Bach B, Vestergaard M. Differential Diagnosis of ICD-11 Personality Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adolescents. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:992. [PMID: 37371224 DOI: 10.3390/children10060992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
The International Classification of Diseases 11th Revision (ICD-11) introduces fundamentally new diagnostic descriptions for personality disorder and autism spectrum disorder. Instead of the traditional categorical taxonomies, both personality disorder and autism spectrum disorder are described as being on a continuum. Accumulating research has pointed out that, in some cases, adolescents with autism spectrum disorder are at risk of being confused with having a personality disorder, which particularly applies to female adolescents. Case reports describe how adult autistic women struggled with social and identity roles as children and adolescents, using compensatory strategies such as social imitation and other types of camouflaging. Furthermore, some adolescents with autism display emotion dysregulation and self-injury. The ICD-11 recognizes that features of autism spectrum disorder may resemble features of personality disorder, but the two diagnoses have not yet been formally compared to one another. The present article therefore sought to outline and discuss the overlap and boundaries between the ICD-11 definitions of personality disorder and autism spectrum disorder and propose guiding principles that may assist practitioners in differential diagnosis with female adolescents. We specifically highlight how aspects of the self and interpersonal functioning along with emotional, cognitive, and behavioral manifestations may overlap across the two diagnoses. Restricted, repetitive, and inflexible patterns of behavior, interests, and activities are core features of autism spectrum disorder, which may be masked or less pronounced in female adolescents. Collecting a developmental history of the early presence or absence of autistic features is vital for a conclusive diagnosis, including features that are typically camouflaged in females. A number of future directions for research and clinical practice are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Bach
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Center for Personality Disorder Research, Mental Health Services, Region Zealand, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Martin Vestergaard
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Center for Personality Disorder Research, Mental Health Services, Region Zealand, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark
- Department of Child and Adolescence Psychiatry (Copenhagen University Hospital), Mental Health Services, Region Zealand, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
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11
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Dell'Osso L, Cremone IM, Nardi B, Tognini V, Castellani L, Perrone P, Amatori G, Carpita B. Comorbidity and Overlaps between Autism Spectrum and Borderline Personality Disorder: State of the Art. Brain Sci 2023; 13:862. [PMID: 37371342 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the relationship between Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and personality disorders (PD) still being scarcely understood, recent investigations increased awareness about significant overlaps between some PD and autism spectrum conditions. In this framework, several studies suggested the presence of similarities between BPD and ASD symptoms and traits, based on the recent literature that increasingly reported increased comorbidity rates and significant symptomatologic overlaps between the two conditions. The aim of this review is to describe the available studies about the prevalence of the association between different forms of autism spectrum (full-fledged clinical conditions as well as subthreshold autistic traits) and BPD. Despite some controversial results and lack of homogeneity in the methods used for the diagnostic assessment, the reviewed literature highlighted how subjects with BPD reported higher scores on tests evaluating the presence of AT compared to a non-clinical population and hypothesized the presence of unrecognized ASD in some BPD patients or vice versa, while also describing a shared vulnerability towards traumatic events, and a greater risk of suicidality in BPD subjects with high autistic traits. However, the specific measure and nature of this association remain to be explored in more depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ivan Mirko Cremone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Benedetta Nardi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Valeria Tognini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Castellani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Perrone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Amatori
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Carpita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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Gillett G, Leeves L, Patel A, Prisecaru A, Spain D, Happé F. The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder traits and diagnosis in adults and young people with personality disorders: A systematic review. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2023; 57:181-196. [PMID: 35986511 PMCID: PMC9896258 DOI: 10.1177/00048674221114603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Autism spectrum disorders and personality disorders are spectrum conditions with shared clinical features. Despite similarities, previous attempts to synthesise literature on co-existing prevalence and shared traits have employed a unidirectional focus, assessing personality characteristics of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. Here, we assess the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and/or traits among persons diagnosed with a personality disorder. METHODS We systematically reviewed the English-language literature following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, according to a pre-registered protocol (PROSPERO: CRD 42021264106). Peer-reviewed quantitative studies reporting the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis or traits in persons with an established personality disorder diagnosis were included. Studies were critically appraised using the Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies. RESULTS Fifteen studies were identified, including 72,902 participants (median: 48, interquartile range: 30-77). Diagnoses included borderline, schizotypal and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders, and cohorts with unspecified personality disorder diagnoses. There was significant heterogeneity in diagnostic methodology and assessment tools used. We identified preliminary evidence of an increased prevalence of co-existing autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and traits among those diagnosed with a personality disorder, although significant limitations of the literature were identified. CONCLUSION Our research suggests clinicians should consider conducting a careful developmental assessment when assessing service-users with possible or confirmed personality disorder. Future research directions may include larger studies featuring clinical control groups, an exploration of shared and differentiating behavioural-cognitive features of the two conditions, and investigation into potentially shared aetiological factors. Research investigating demographic factors that may contribute to potential diagnostic overshadowing would also be welcomed.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Gillett
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK,George Gillett, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AB, UK.
| | | | | | | | - Debbie Spain
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Francesca Happé
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
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Brook Y. How talking therapists experience working with adult clients who have autism. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yvette Brook
- Counselling and Psychotherapy Newman University Birmingham England UK
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Langwerden RJ, van der Heijden PT, Soons PH, Derksen JJ, Vuijk R, Egger JI. An Exploratory Study of MMPI-2-RF Personality and Psychopathology Profiles of Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder without Intellectual Disability. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2022; 19:335-346. [PMID: 36340276 PMCID: PMC9597642 DOI: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20220509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE More empirical research is needed to disentangle the phenotypes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and cluster C personality symptomatology (CCPD), as both show similarities in their clinical presentation. We explored personality and psychopathology dimensions as conceptualized in contemporary dimensional taxonomies (i.e., hierarchical taxonomy of psychopathology; HiTOP) in adults with ASD without intellectual disability operationalized by the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2-Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF). METHOD Applying secondary analytic processes using clinical data, we cross-examined the MMPI-2-RF profiles of adults with ASD (n = 28) compared to adults with Cluster C personality disorders (CCPD; n = 28) and a control group (n = 28) by conducting nonparametric tests and assessing effect sizes. RESULTS The profiles of the ASD and CCPD groups evidenced to be similar, and both average clinical profiles diverged from the average control group profiles by elevated levels of demoralization, internalizing, and somatization symptomatology. There were small differences between the average profiles of adults with ASD and adults with CCPD. Additional research using dimensional measures of psychopathology could elucidate the dimensional phenotypes of ASD and CCPD. CONCLUSIONS Based on the results in this study, the MMPI-2-RF may not meaningfully discriminate between the two clinical presentations, with the exception of various externalizing scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robbert J. Langwerden
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, The Netherlands, Community-Based Research Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA,Corresponding Author Robbert J. Langwerden 11200 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199, USA E-mail: robbert.langwerden@ donders.ru.nl Phone: (+1) 305 348 5388
| | - Paul T. van der Heijden
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, The Netherlands, Reinier van Arkel Mental Health Institute, ’s Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jan J.L. Derksen
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, The Netherlands, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Department of Clinical and Life Span Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium
| | - Richard Vuijk
- Sarr Autism Rotterdam, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jos I.M. Egger
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, The Netherlands, Vincent van Gogh Centres of Excellence for Neuropsychiatry, Venray, The Netherlands, Stevig Specialized and Forensic Care for People with Intellectual Disabilities, Dichterbij, Oostrum, The Netherlands
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Lai MC. Clinical reflections on the intersections of autism and personality development. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2022; 26:739-742. [PMID: 35416070 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221088073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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De Hert M, Thys E, Catthoor K, Van den Broeck K, Matthys F, Vansteelandt K, Detraux J. Media coverage of Belgium's first criminal case concerning euthanasia for psychiatric patients: A content analysis of Flemish newspapers and magazines. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1050086. [PMID: 36684025 PMCID: PMC9845880 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1050086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Belgium is one of the few countries worldwide where euthanasia on the grounds of unbearable suffering caused by a psychiatric disorder is legally possible. In April 2010 euthanasia was carried out on a 38-year-old Belgian woman with borderline personality disorder and/or autism. After a complaint by the family, three physicians were referred to the Court of Assizes on the charge of "murder by poisoning". METHODS A content analysis of print and online news coverage of the euthanasia case in a selected sample of Flemish newspapers and magazines, published between December 1, 2019 and March 1, 2020, was conducted to analyze the prominence and framing of the euthanasia case, as well as the portrayal of key figures in this case. A quantitative analysis, as well as an in-depth qualitative analysis (with the aid of NVivo 1.0 software) was performed. RESULTS One thousand two hundred fifteen news articles were identified through database searching. Of these, 789 articles were included after screening for relevance and eligibility. Mean prominence scores were moderate and did not statistically significantly differ between newspapers with a different historical ideological background or form (elite versus popular). The most frequent headline topics featured legal aspects (relating to the Belgian Euthanasia Law or the course of the trial). Headlines and content of most articles (90 and 89%, respectively) did not contain an essential standpoint on the euthanasia case itself or, if they did, were neutral. Historical ideological background, nor form of newspaper (elite versus popular) significantly influenced headline tone or article direction toward the euthanasia case. Despite this, our qualitative analysis showed some subtle differences in selection, statement or tonality of reports between certain newspapers with a different historical ideological background. CONCLUSION Although major Flemish newspapers and magazines generally were neutral in their coverage of the judicial case, major points of contention discussed were: the need for an evaluation and possible amendments to the existing Euthanasia Law, including a revision of the Belgian Control Commission and the system of penalties for physicians, and the absence of any consensus or guidance on how to define psychological suffering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc De Hert
- University Psychiatric Center KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Research Group Psychiatry, Center for Clinical Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Antwerp Health Law and Ethics Chair - AHLEC University Antwerpen, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Erik Thys
- Psycho-Sociaal Centrum, St.-Alexius-Elsene Vzw, Ixelles, Belgium
| | - Kirsten Catthoor
- Ziekenhuis Netwerk Antwerpen (ZNA), Antwerp, Belgium.,The Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI) and Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Flemish Psychiatric Association, Kortenberg, Belgium
| | - Kris Van den Broeck
- The Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI) and Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Flemish Psychiatric Association, Kortenberg, Belgium
| | - Frieda Matthys
- Flemish Psychiatric Association, Kortenberg, Belgium.,Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kristof Vansteelandt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Research Group Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Detraux
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Research Group Psychiatry, Public Health Psychiatry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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