Challenges in the Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Contributions from Speech-Language Pathology

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has experienced a notable rise in diagnoses in recent decades, prompting discussion regarding its etiological and clinical implications. This study aimed to investigate, from the perspective of speech-language pathologists, the factors contributing to this increase. A qualitative, descriptive design was employed between April and May 2024, involving 34 speech-language pathologists from public and private healthcare services. Participants, selected through purposive sampling, completed an online semi-structured questionnaire containing open- and closed-ended questions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis. All respondents reported perceiving an increase in ASD diagnoses or suspected cases. The most frequently cited contributing factors included increased access to information via digital media (20.2%), expansion of diagnostic criteria (13.5%), emphasis on early identification (13.5%), and diagnostic confusion (16.3%). Additional elements involved excessive screen exposure, medicalization of childhood, and deficiencies in professional training and interdisciplinary collaboration. The findings suggest that the observed increase is multifactorial, encompassing clinical, social, and cultural transformations. Within this scenario, speech-language pathology should adopt a critical, context-sensitive stance toward child development. Limitations include a geographically restricted sample and limited participant number. Future studies should employ mixed-method designs and broader samples to deepen the understanding of this phenomenon.