Clinicians in many countries are increasingly working with children from migrant families. Although autism is diagnosed at an approximately equal rate in children in developed countries internationally (estimated 1% of the population), many studies report that children in migrant communities are at relatively higher risk for autism. Risk factors as well as symptom rates appear to vary across cultures. This chapter reviews the current state of the science and outlines conceptual considerations for clinicians assessing foreign, migrant, and minority children for diagnosis of autism. Possible reasons for higher rates among migrant children are discussed and suggestions for clinical evaluation are made.
Part of the book: Autism