The history of ASD and SCZ is a century-long journey from total diagnostic conflation to strict empirical separation. Initially coined by Eugen Bleuler to describe a symptom of schizophrenia, "autism" has evolved from a psychoanalytic defense mechanism into a recognized neurodevelopmental identity. This section traces the shift from viewing autism as "childhood schizophrenia" to the modern neurodiversity paradigm.
1911, 1970: The Era of Conflation
- 1911
Bleuler's Autismus
A symptom of schizophrenia defined as a "withdrawal from reality."
- 1952
DSM-I & II
Autism classified under "Schizophrenic reaction, childhood type."
1980, Present: Partition & Diversity
- 1980
DSM-III
Infantile Autism becomes a distinct Pervasive Developmental Disorder.
- 2013
DSM-5 Consolidation
A single unified Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is established.
Frequently asked questions
Autism, psychosis, and where the two meet.
Can an autistic person also develop schizophrenia?
How do clinicians tell autism apart from schizophrenia?
Are intense special interests the same as delusions?
What is a mirror phenotype, and why does it matter?
Does treatment change when both conditions are present?
When should a family seek an evaluation?
Keep reading
All autism++ pages →
- Autism++ASD vs. schizophrenia (clinical)The full clinical differential, including pitfalls, mimics, and catatonia.For clinicians
- Autism++Autism vs. psychosisA plain-language differential guide for families and front-line clinicians.For families
- Autism++Neurodivergent careSocial skills, executive function, and care for the whole neurodivergent spectrum.For families
- Programs & careMetacognitive interventionsThe wider family of metacognitive approaches for psychosis and autism.For clinicians
- Autism++Autism-only careSupport for autistic young people who are not on a psychosis pathway.For families
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