Which of the following is NOT one of the criteria for being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder?

• A. Hallucinations and delusions must be present for at least one month
• B. Persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts
• C. Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities
• D. Symptoms must be present in the early developmental period

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition). These criteria focus on core behavioral and developmental features.
2. Step 2: Identify the key criteria for ASD diagnosis, which include: (a) persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts, (b) restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities, and (c) symptoms present in the early developmental period.
3. Step 3: Recognize that hallucinations and delusions are not part of the diagnostic criteria for ASD; instead, these symptoms are typically associated with psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.
4. Step 4: Compare each option given in the problem to the established criteria for ASD to determine which one does not belong.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the statement 'Hallucinations and delusions must be present for at least one month' is NOT a criterion for ASD diagnosis, as it pertains to other mental health conditions.