Presentation of Depressive Symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorders

BACKGROUND: Depressive disorders are frequently mis- and underdiagnosed in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to identify and synthesize current knowledge regarding (1) the presentation of depressive symptoms and (2) the use of self-reports in assessing depressive symptoms in individuals with ASD and comparisons between self-reported and observer-reported symptoms. A scoping review was conducted to capture the full range of literature on the topic and to identify research gaps. METHODS: Articles were identified through a search of academic literature and screened for relevance to the aims of the review. RESULTS: In addition to typical depression symptoms, individuals with ASD may demonstrate atypical symptoms such as changes in autistic symptoms, self-injurious behavior, and psychomotor changes. Moreover, the review revealed a bias toward observer-reports of symptoms. Self-reports frequently were not included or were ascribed less weight than observer-reports. Self-reports typically differed from reports given by parents or other caregivers, but a consistent pattern in these differences has not been established. CONCLUSIONS: Further research on the use of self-reports in assessing depressive symptoms in individuals with ASD is needed. Self-reports may provide information not obtainable through observer-reports, and integrating both self- and observer-reports in psychiatric evaluations may produce more comprehensive and accurate assessments.