Substance Use and Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Comparative Analysis

Treatment for Substance Use Disorders (SUD) is challenging, with high rates of relapse, and admission to treatment is often delayed until maladaptive patterns of behavior have caused a great deal of stress and distress for the individual and the family. This book investigates the similarities and differences between substance use disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) through examining the biological, psychological and sociological perspectives of the disorders, using Hermeneutics. There is a genetic basis for each of the disorders, and biofeedback has been effective to improve treatment outcomes for individuals. Individuals with substance use disorders and autistim spectrum disorder often struggle with social anxiety and social skills, which leads to impairment in social settings. Both disorders have common co-occurring disorders, including mood disorders, anxiety and ADD/ADHD. Many individuals with substance use disorders and autism spectrum disorder have communication and learning differences that are under-diagnosed. This book elucidates a path forward to helping these populations.