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Contribution title Hallucinations and Illusions in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review
Contribution code D2.032
Authors
  1. Constantinos Nicolaou CHU Rouen Presenter
  2. Héloïse Young INSERM
Form of presentation Poster
Topic
  • T04 - ASD
Abstract Background: Hallucinations and illusions are commonly associated with psychotic disorders but may also occur in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). These phenomena are under-recognized and poorly understood in ASD, partly due to communication challenges and difficulties in evaluating subjective experiences. Despite their potential clinical significance, research on this topic is limited, leaving a critical gap in understanding.

Objective: To systematically review and synthesize the available evidence on the prevalence, characteristics, and clinical implications of hallucinations and illusions in individuals with ASD.

Methods: This review is being conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Comprehensive searches are being performed in [PubMed, Web of science Core Collection, Cochrane Library, Lens.org and EBSCOhost APA PsycArticles, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection] without restriction on publication date. Eligible studies include those examining hallucinations or illusions in individuals with ASD.

Preliminary Status: Screening and data extraction are ongoing. Early findings highlight the limited number of studies addressing this topic, with significant variability in methodologies and a lack of standardized assessment tools. These limitations complicate efforts to characterize hallucinations and illusions in ASD and their differentiation from symptoms of psychosis.

Conclusion: This review aims to address a critical gap by providing a comprehensive synthesis of the existing evidence on hallucinations and illusions in ASD. Findings will inform clinical practice and guide future research on the neurobiological and clinical aspects of these under-recognized phenomena.

Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorders, hallucinations, illusions, systematic review