You're right that sensory issues make up a small (optional) part of the diagnostic criteria for ASD under the DSM-5. And I agree that "autism" in popular discourse seems to be very flexible and inclusive, but the medical diagnostic criteria are much more specific. When someone does meet these criteria, there's something going on that isn't just a collection of unrelated peculiarities. This seems to be supported by the very high heritability of diagnosed ASD.
I would agree with you that there are issues caused by the wide range of presentations. It seems as though there's a tension between differentiation and unification at the various levels of scientific research, social understanding, social accommodation, etc. I expect things will get teased out over time.
I would agree with you that there are issues caused by the wide range of presentations. It seems as though there's a tension between differentiation and unification at the various levels of scientific research, social understanding, social accommodation, etc. I expect things will get teased out over time.
DSM summary: https://www.cdc.gov/autism/hcp/diagnosis/index.html
DSM and ICD summary: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/diagnos...
ICD-11 direct: https://icd.who.int/browse/2024-01/mms/en#437815624