Assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Abstract
Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology 24 (2009) 719â720 Book Review Assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sam Goldstein, Jack A. Naglieri, and Sally Ozonoff. The Guilford Press, New York (2009). 384 pp., $45. Few books on the assessment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) exist. This comprehensive volume offers professionals in the ï¬eld a guide to understanding best practices associated with evaluating this complex disorder. Goldstein and Ozonoff begin with a brief history of autism, noting reports of its existence as far back as the 18th century. Their account of the disorder is more comprehensive than most, as it includes an historical perspective of the other disorders that comprise the spectrum, which is often absent in the literature. Following a descriptive overview of autism which highlights the core and associated features of the disorder, DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria are presented for all ï¬ve of the disorders currently included on the autism spectrum. Inclusion of case studies at the close of this chapter provides the reader with context for understanding challenges inherent in assessing ASD (Mash & Wolfe, 2008). The chapter on epidemiology is dense, but includes important information on prevalence and the impact that changing diagnostic criteria have on these rates. Authors