Post-traumatic stress disorder in individuals with autism spectrum disorder: A literature review

This structured narrative literature review examined current evidence on the identification and management of PTSD and trauma-related symptoms in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Article Abstract

“This structured narrative literature review examined current evidence on the identification and management of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma-related symptoms in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Literature was identified through searches of PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar, focusing on peer-reviewed English-language studies published between 2010 and 2025. Studies were included if they examined PTSD, trauma-related symptoms, assessment, diagnosis, or interventions in autistic children and adolescents, or provided an ASD-specific or broader neurodevelopmental context relevant to trauma. Findings were organized thematically due to heterogeneity in study designs, participant characteristics, diagnostic instruments, and outcome measures.

The reviewed literature suggests that PTSD and trauma-related symptoms may be frequently unrecognized in autistic youth due to assessment complexities related to symptom overlap, communication differences, sensory sensitivities, and diagnostic overshadowing. Adapted screening approaches, caregiver and educator input, and developmentally appropriate assessment strategies may improve recognition of trauma-related distress. Evidence for treatment remains limited, but modified trauma-focused interventions, including adapted cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, caregiver-assisted approaches, and trauma-informed care settings, may support more individualized management. Overall, current evidence supports the importance of early, ASD-sensitive recognition of trauma-related symptoms while highlighting the need for larger pediatric studies, validated screening tools, longitudinal follow-up, and greater diversity in study populations.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Smith Martin, A., & Thompson, F. (2026). Post-traumatic stress disorder in individuals with autism spectrum disorder: A literature review. Cureus 18(6), e110949. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.110949