Overlap between autism and schizophrenia: history and current status
Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities
ISSN: 2044-1282
Article publication date: 1 January 2014
Abstract
Purpose
Considerable confusion surrounds the overlapping of autism and schizophrenia. This has significant implications for clinicians given that correct diagnosis is critical for treatment.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper sets out to clarify the position by reviewing the history and current status of the relationship between autism and schizophrenia. A general review was conducted using a chronological approach that focused on phenomenology, aetiology, genetic mechanisms and treatment.
Findings
Persons with autism are far more rigid, have difficulties set shifting and get far more upset and aggressive when their routines have changed. They have far more severe theory of mind and empathy deficits than those with schizophrenia.
Research limitations/implications
Future diagnostic refinement by means of molecular genetic studies will alter the diagnostic categories. Further studies of the conditions of autism and schizophrenia are therefore necessary.
Practical implications
Both conditions need treatment both clinically and practically.
Originality/value
This paper elucidates the relationship between autism and schizophrenia from a historical and current perspective. It emerges that this confusion is likely to be resolved by molecular genetic studies that will alter the diagnostic categories.
Keywords
Citation
Fitzgerald, M. (2014), "Overlap between autism and schizophrenia: history and current status", Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities, Vol. 8 No. 1, pp. 15-23. https://doi.org/10.1108/AMHID-09-2013-0058
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited