PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER: ANXIETY AND DEPRESSIVE DISORDERS

There is scientific consensus on the need for further research on diagnostic comorbidity in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The scarcity of studies on this topic in Spanish-speaking countries, together with the existence of heterogeneous approaches in those conducted in English-speaking countries, raises the need for context-bound studies on the basis of conclusions already published in the scientific literature. The aim of this paper is to present and discuss the results of a review of research studies published in the major international databases on the subject of diagnostic comorbidity of depressive and anxiety disorders in ASD. More specifically, our purpose is threefold: 1) to highlight the methodological problems of research work on the high prevalence of the above-mentioned disorders among individuals with ASD as well as the need for longitudinal studies in this area; 2) to present some possible explanatory hypotheses on comorbidity and vulnerability which appear to be more feasible in the light of the reviewed literature; and 3) to suggest future lines of research capable of overcoming the methodological problems detected in published studies. The paper analyses the overlapping symptoms shared by mood disorders and ASD and makes a case for the need to surveil and detect suicidal trends and peer abuse. Our conclusion is that there is an urgent need to develop specific strategies and instruments that are helpful in conducting a differential assessment of comorbid conditions and in promoting more effective therapies. The paper ends by making a final plea for reflection in order to encourage possible lines of further research that may supplement, refute or confirm published results, the ultimate end being to improve professional practice in the areas of prevention, detection and early intervention.