Whitepaper Presentation: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and /or Giftedness
M. Frumau van Pinxten & E. Roelfsema, in association with A. van der Spek
Theme: Connecting Research & Practice in Meaningful Ways
Target audience: Psychologists, students
Keywords: Autism Disorder, Giftedness, differential diagnosis
Abstract:
Clinical practice shows that health professionals often struggle differentiating autism spectrum disorders (ASD) from giftedness. Unfamiliarity with overlap and differences between these two can lead to incorrect or missed ASD diagnoses. This can lead to either overtreatment or undertreatment of potential problems. For this reason, a whitepaper was developed.
The white paper can help diagnosticians make a thorough distinction between ASD and giftedness to prevent misdiagnosis.
Summary:
In January 2022, a whitepaper has been drawn up from the expertise area of the Autism Expertise Center (Annelies Spek, Michelle Kiep, Nina Dos Santos), GGZ Noord-Holland Noord (Lisa Snip, Meike Dirks), IQwise (Esther Roelfsema) and PPF Center for High Development Potential (Mia Frumau) and, also the substantive input from colleagues from the various workplaces and Pleun van Vliet.
This whitepaper was created after careful consultation between all those involved. During these consultations, points of view, perspectives and experiences on the differences and similarities of ASD and giftedness were discussed. The discussion focused on the following ASD criteria:
A1. Limited social-emotional reciprocity
A2. Limitations in non-verbal communication
A3. Limitation in developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships
B1. Stereotypical motor skills, language, and behavior
B2. Sticking to the same, routines, rituals
B3. Limited, fixed interests that are abnormally intense or focused
B4. Sensory over-/under sensitivity.
And finally on the differentiation of what is important in the diagnostic and treatment contact, to decide on the correct conclusion and treatment.
Our goal was to support professionals to properly differentiate between ASD and giftedness, and thereby to prevent misdiagnosis. The whitepaper has already been found to be very helpful for diagnosticians and psychologists, and also patients.
