The Influence of Demographic Factors on the Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Review and Call for Research

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnoses are made based on a pattern of behavioral symptoms, yet a growing body of research indicates that when, and indeed whether, an individual receives a diagnosis of ASD is influenced by myriad demographic factors including race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status (SES), and parental education level. The current manuscript provides a focused review of a subset of existing literature chosen to demonstrate how demographic factors may be related to the identification of individuals with ASD within the United States. Several possible explanations for existing disparities are discussed, along with clinical implications for professionals working with children from diverse backgrounds who are suspected of having ASD. Additional research in this area is needed to facilitate development of effective means to eliminate the diagnostic disparities.