Vol. 7 No. 2 (2025): April - June 2025
Clinical psychology

Level 1 autism without intellectual disability and anxiety disorders in adults: between psychiatric comorbidity and differential diagnosis – a mini-review

Angela Ammendola
SiPGI, Torre Annunziata (NA), Italy
Simona Durante
SiPGI, Torre Annunziata (NA), Italy
Luca Napolitano
SiPGI, Torre Annunziata (NA), Italy
Flavia Morfini
SiPGI, Torre Annunziata (NA), Italy
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Published 2025-06-11

Keywords

  • Autism, Anxiety, Adult, Differential diagnosis, Comorbidity.

How to Cite

Ammendola, A., Durante, S., Napolitano, L., & Morfini, F. (2025). Level 1 autism without intellectual disability and anxiety disorders in adults: between psychiatric comorbidity and differential diagnosis – a mini-review. Phenomena Journal - International Journal of Psychopathology, Neuroscience and Psychotherapy, 7(2), 48–54. https://doi.org/10.32069/PJ.2021.2.231

Abstract

Anxiety-related problems are often comorbid with autism spectrum disorder. This article reviews the scientific literature on the comorbidity between these two clinical conditions, with a particular focus on the behavioral implications of such symptomatic overlap. It will highlight how anxiety may mask or amplify autistic symptoms. In light of this diagnostic complexity, the paper offers insights into the importance of more precise diagnostic approaches and strategies to improve therapeutic intervention. This way, the intervention plan is more effective and tailored to the specific patient.

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