Autism Spectrum Disorder and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) are currently conceptualized as distinct illnesses. However, there has been considerable debate over the association between these two disorders. Research findings over the last decade suggest a number of overlapping domains between ASD and SSD: shared environmental risk factors, genetics, neurobiological features, brain imaging, clinical features, and comorbidities. These commonalities lead to significant challenges in differentiating between the core symptoms of ASD and SSD. Misinterpretation of symptoms is common in clinical practice, particularly while working with young people at the early stage of these neurodevelopmental conditions, such as first-episode psychosis or clinical high risk. It is essential for mental health professionals to know about research-informed clinical guidelines on how to differentiate ASD and SSD in the clinical setting. [ Psychiatr Ann . 2023;53(5):209–215.]