Proposed DSM Reclassification for Asperger's
For several years now, since Mark's youngest moved in with us, I have been researching developmental disorders. We were told he had been diagnosed with ADHD, but so many of his behaviors were more inline with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs).
A friend of ours has a son with Asperger's and much of his behavior was very similar to what we were living with. Perhaps there was a cross-over. I didn't know.
Now, for DSM-V, the American Psychiatric Association is proposing a merger of conditions, so to speak. As I understand it, there would be no diagnosis of Asperger's or Pervasive Development Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified. Everything would fall under ASDs, with a differentiation as to severity of symptoms.
Needless to say, this proposal has caused an uproar from both sides of the issue.
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Read More Proposed DSM Reclassification for Asperger's
Understandably, higher functioning Aspies are not thrilled with the idea of being 'renamed' Autistic. In the world in general, there is a huge difference in the two labels. One being more positive than the other or, at the very least, less negative.
Their fear, which may or may not be justified, is that they and their affected children will no longer receive the services they need, due to that higher functioning. Parents of children at the other end of the spectrum (pardon the phrase) share the concerns over reduced services.
Believing that higher functioning Autistics provide better success stories, these parents fear that their children will be shunted aside in favor of 'good press' for management therapies. I can see both sides. And I understand the concerns.
I guess only time will tell if patient care improves or worsens - for all involved.
