Abstract

Each year, the number of people diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) rises. This rising number is due to the abundance of research done on each disorder. Because of this increase in information, many adults and children are getting a comorbid diagnosis, meaning that they are being diagnosed with both disorders at the same time. There is one catch, however; research has shown that ADHD and ASD are spectrums, meaning that they have symptoms that can range in frequency and severity while also affecting each person differently. A large portion of the research conducted on each diagnosis has been done on males. Because the studies were only done on males, many females are misdiagnosed with conditions that they do not have because they are compared to males. Even though this is the case, the research continues to grow, helping to correctly diagnose and treat both males and females with the diagnoses. Because each disorder is a spectrum, there is a lot of overlap regarding symptoms and treatment. These treatments include occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy as well as applied behavior analysis therapy and many other types of therapy.

Semester/Year of Award

Fall 2025

Mentor

Dr. Karen Puckett

Mentor Department Affiliation

Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

Mentor Professional Affiliation

OTD, OTR/L, ATP

Access Options

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Scholars

Degree Level

Bachelors

Department

Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

IRB Approval Number (if applicable)

6732

Presentation

https://www.canva.com/design/DAG4Tg3c1Ec/SBPTMBl2463-IBhApyTqqg/edit

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