Emotions, Mood, Behavior, and Adaptive Assessment

Abstract

Emotional, Mood, and Adaptive Assessment are associated areas of a comprehensive evaluation for an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Emotional, mood, and behavioral diagnoses may include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, DMDD, and behavioral disorders to name a few. Symptoms may include restlessness, excessive worries, adherence to nonfunctional rituals, poor eye contact, minimal response to questions, slow processing speed, individuals may appear to be on the edge of tears, crying, have a sense of hopelessness, may report loneliness, suicidality, lack of interest in previously pleasurable activities, racing thoughts, pressured speech, grandiosity, flight of ideas, history of mood swings, suicidality, irritability, self-injury, explosive temper, and high risk behavior. Adaptive challenges include difficulties with daily routines, hygiene, self-care, chores, community living, and social relationships. A clinician may assess these emotional and adaptive areas using measures and interviews including the BDI-II, BASC-2, CDI, BAI, RCMAS, client or parent interview, Roberts, TAT, MMPI-2, Vineland-II, and SIB-R. By assessing these associated areas, a clinician can offer more targeted recommendations for treatment of other symptoms and conditions that may be present in an individual with ASD.