The Story Behind Rising Autism Rates
A discussion on the socio-cultural and clinical factors contributing to the rise in autism diagnoses.
A Closer Look at the "Autism Epidemic"
About This Video
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Autism diagnoses have risen sharply over the past few decades, often leading to talk of an "autism epidemic." In this informal conversation, Dr. Donna Henderson and Dr. Megan Anna Neff look at the bigger picture. They trace how autism has been understood, diagnosed, and missed over the years.
They unpack the social, cultural, and clinical factors behind the rise in diagnoses, from changes to the DSM and shifts in clinician awareness to the growing recognition of Autistic adults and other historically overlooked groups. Along the way, they look at what these trends really reveal and why this history matters for clinicians, families, and Autistic adults alike.
Content Overview
What You'll Learn
In this conversation, you'll explore:
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How changes in diagnostic criteria over time have shaped who gets recognized as Autistic.
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The clinical, systemic, and cultural shifts behind rising diagnosis rates.
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Why better recognition, rather than an epidemic, explains much of the increase.
What's Included
Intended Audience
Contents & Materials
