Depression and mood disorders among persons with autism spectrum disorders

Johnny L. Matson, Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, United States. Electronic address: johnmatson@aol.com.
Lindsey W. Williams, Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, United States. Electronic address: lindseywilliswilliams@gmail.com.

Abstract

In the past decade, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) have both risen in prevalence and become a critical area of research in the field of developmental disabilities. As the body of knowledge about ASD has grown, the overlap of ASD with other problems has also become a rapidly emerging area of study. One of the most studied of these topics is comorbid psychopathology, with depression and mood disorders emerging as one of the more troublesome of these co-occurring conditions. A great deal of research is still needed to determine how best to assess and treat these disorders within the context of ASD. This manuscript reviews current trends and topics relative to this area of study.