Will the Real Autism Please Stand Up?

This introductory chapter to the book explores the historic fascination and controversy that have always surrounded autism. From the DSM-III, when it was first identified, to the DSM-V, which has caused a stir all over again, autism has been the front-page news. Starting out as an infantile version of schizophrenia to suddenly including so many people that the government is trying to find a 'cure', the authors examine data that looks at the relationship between the evolving criteria and the increase in autism cases, as well as the gender and race correlation in attaining a diagnosis. The chapter attempts at lightheartedly, at times, and highlights sections to draw attention to the clinical nuances that are often unspoken in literature. Having dedicated her career to neuropsychological assessments, Dr. Sanam Hafeez attempts to highlight obvious disparities in today's diagnostic criteria, how it is misused by the public at large, and how it is also missed by the clinicians. She aims to help outline an assessment model backed by research and her own experience.