Autism Spectrum Disorder in School-Aged Children: Screening, Assessment, and Diagnosis

Dear Colleagues,

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex, lifelong neurodevelopmental condition characterized by difficulties in social communication and interaction, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviors and interests. During the school-age years, children and youth with ASD encounter unique challenges as they navigate increasingly demanding academic, social, and adaptive environments. Timely identification, comprehensive assessment, and accurate clinical diagnosis are therefore critical to optimizing developmental and educational outcomes. However, significant practice gaps persist across educational, clinical, and community settings.

This Special Issue aims to bring together current scientific research and expert perspectives to advance the understanding of ASD during this pivotal developmental period.

Importantly, this issue also emphasizes the need to extend systematic screening and assessment to preteens and adolescents, groups who may have gone undetected in early childhood screening programs or whose needs evolve significantly during the transition to middle and high school. Identification at these later developmental stages is essential for addressing co-occurring conditions, adapting to shifting social demands and academic pressures, and supporting self-awareness, mental health, and adaptive functioning during adolescence.

Research areas of interest may include, but are not limited to, the following: screening and identification, tool development and cultural adaptation, assessment, intervention and support, and equity and access.

Dr. Clara J Fernández-Álvarez
Prof. Dr. Simona De Stasio
Prof. Dr. Carmen Berenguer
Guest Editors

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