Course Description: This course is based upon material published in the Journal of Child and Family Studies and is available as an open access article from Springer publisher.

ABSTRACT The present study was conducted with the aim to identify comorbid psychiatric disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) (n = 40) and to compare those comorbidity rates to those in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (n = 40). Participants were clinically referred children aged 7–18 years. DSM-IV classifications were used for the primary diagnosis (ASD/ADHD), while comorbid psychiatric disorders were assessed using a structured diagnostic interview, the structured clinical interview for DSM-IV, childhood diagnoses (KID-SCID). Twenty-three children with ASD (57.5  percent) had at least one comorbid disorder, whereas 16 children with ADHD (40.0  percent) were classified as having at least one comorbid disorder. No group differences were found with respect to this comorbidity rate or for the rate of comorbid externalizing disorders (ODD and/or CD). However, children with ASD had more comorbid internalizing disorders compared to children with ADHD. More specifically, children with ASD had higher rates of anxiety disorders, but not mood disorders. No associations between comorbidity and age or between comorbidity and the intelligence quotient was found. It is important for clinicians to always be aware of, and screen for, comorbidity, and to consider treatment for these comorbid disorders. In addition, research should focus on establishing valid and reliable screening tools as well as effective treatment options for these comorbid disorders. 

This course on psychiatric comorbidity in children compares children with autism spectrum disorder and children with attention deficient hyperactivity disorder is designed for professional counselors, social workers, psychologists, nurses, and other clinicians who do clinical work and work with children.  This course is appropriate for beginning, intermediate and advanced level practitioners who wish to develop their understanding of comorbidity, ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. It may also be useful for licensed clinicians who require clinical continuing education courses for license renewal.  

The course is based on a journal article which includes research.  As such it contains statistical analysis and data.  One of the benefits of reading research based articles for continuing education is that it allows the practitioner to keep current on the latest findings in their field. 

Authors:   van Steensel ,  Bogels and de Bruin

Learning Objectives: This course will provide the practitioner with detailed information regarding comorbidity in children with autism spectrum disorders or ADHD.  Specifically, a professional will:
• Describe associations between comorbidity and age or IQ.
• Identify comorbidity rates in children with ADHD
• Identify comorbidity rates in children with autism spectrum disorders

Citation:  van Steensel , Bogels and de Bruin. (2013). Psychiatric Comorbidity in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Comparison with Children with ADHD.  Journal of Child and Family Studies, 22:368–376. Reviewed by TM DiDona, PhD 2018 and found to be current. For a full list of current references, please Click Here