Introduction to ASD and PD

We have created this page to help improve the accessibility of attending Complex Needs with additional neurodiversity related to Autism-Spectrum Disorder and Personality Disorders, and the link between these. 

We acknowledge that accessing the Complex Needs service can be difficult for those with either/or both of these conditions, and by creating this page, we hope that we can help ease the anxieties and difficulties with engaging with the service, whilst providing information and resources to empower individuals to make informed choices. 

Similarities and Differences

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with an early onset and a genetic component. ASD is characterized by deficits in socio-emotional reciprocity, by impaired verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and by an inability to develop and maintain adequate social relationships with peers, and is associated with the presence of repetitive verbal and motor behaviours, restricted patterns of interest, the need for an unchanging (or at least predictable and stable) environment and hypo- or hypersensitivity to sensory inputs. [1].  

The diagnostic criteria of ASD is similar to those of personality disorder, in which they are too characterized by 'pervasive, enduring patterns of thinking, perceiving, reacting, and relating that cause significant distress or functional impairment' [2], as well as difficulties in maintaining and managing interpersonal relationships.  Research has been growing in this area, especially in relation to Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and ASD, as these can co-occur at high rates [3].  Below is an overview of the similarities and differences between BPD and ASD, as well as overlapping traits [4]. 

ASD and Complex Needs - Service User Experiences

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Useful Links and Resources

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References

1.  American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5®). Arlington, VA, 2013. [Google Scholar]

2. Zimmerman, M. (2023, September). Overview of Personality Disorders - Psychiatric Disorders. MSD Manual Professional Edition. https://www.msdmanuals.com/en-gb/professional/psychiatric-disorders/personality-disorders/overview-of-personality-disorders

3. Borderline Personality Disorder or Autism. (n.d.). Insights of a Neurodivergent Clinician. https://neurodivergentinsights.com/misdiagnosis-monday/boderline-personality-disorder-or-autism 

4. Borderline Personality Disorder or Autism. (n.d.). Insights of a Neurodivergent Clinician. https://neurodivergentinsights.com/misdiagnosis-monday/boderline-personality-disorder-or-autism