Changing Autism Definition Could Exclude Many From Services
By: Big 2 News Staff
Updated: January 20, 2012
Proposed changes to the definition of autism may narrow the criteria for the disorder and sharply cut soaring diagnosis rates.
The new definition also could keep many people with related disorders like Asperger syndrome from getting things like special education and social services to deal with their disability.
The new autism definition is part of revisions being made to the standard mental disorders manual that determines treatment and insurance decisions.
The "New York Times" reports a panel has been appointed by the American Psychiatric Association on the matter.
People with Asperger's do not meet the definition for full-blown autism but have similar social difficulties.
The new definition also could keep many people with related disorders like Asperger syndrome from getting things like special education and social services to deal with their disability.
The new autism definition is part of revisions being made to the standard mental disorders manual that determines treatment and insurance decisions.
The "New York Times" reports a panel has been appointed by the American Psychiatric Association on the matter.
People with Asperger's do not meet the definition for full-blown autism but have similar social difficulties.
