Abstract
Both high-functioning autism (HFA) and social phobia (SP) involve profound social interaction deficits. Although these disorders
share some similar symptoms, they are conceptualized as distinct. Because both HFA and SP are defined behaviorally, the degree
of overlap between the two disorders may result in misinterpretation of symptoms. However, the deficits in each disorder differ,
particularly in areas of social interaction, emotion recognition and expression, and communication. This paper reviews the
literature that informs our current understanding of the behavioral overlaps and differences in HFA and SP. The review also
addresses the implications of our current knowledge of these two disorders for differential diagnosis, treatment, and future
research. Interdisciplinary, developmentally-oriented research may help extend current approaches to HFA and SP.
share some similar symptoms, they are conceptualized as distinct. Because both HFA and SP are defined behaviorally, the degree
of overlap between the two disorders may result in misinterpretation of symptoms. However, the deficits in each disorder differ,
particularly in areas of social interaction, emotion recognition and expression, and communication. This paper reviews the
literature that informs our current understanding of the behavioral overlaps and differences in HFA and SP. The review also
addresses the implications of our current knowledge of these two disorders for differential diagnosis, treatment, and future
research. Interdisciplinary, developmentally-oriented research may help extend current approaches to HFA and SP.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-14
- DOI 10.1007/s10803-011-1386-7
- Authors
- Katherine E. Tyson, Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Unit 1020, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
- Dean G. Cruess, Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Unit 1020, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
- Journal Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
- Online ISSN 1573-3432
- Print ISSN 0162-3257