When Smart Children, Teens, and Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum Have ADHD
ADHD Weekly, September 18, 2025
Featuring Thomas E. Brown, PhD
More than half of the individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) also have ADHD. Yet often their ADHD is overlooked and not adequately treated because many clinicians and educators recognize ASD but do not see ADHD. This is especially true for those children, teens, and young adults on the spectrum whose IQ is average or above average.
Psychologist Thomas E. Brown offered examples of children, teens, and young adults on the spectrum who have average or above average smarts and have ADHD. He discussed how to provide assessments and helpful treatment for co-occurring ASD and ADHD.
Dr. Brown received CHADD’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024. Following his death in 2025, CHADD’s Young Scientist Award was renamed The Dr. Thomas E. Brown Pioneer Award in his honor. The Dr. Thomas E. Brown Memorial Fund supports this award and continues his legacy of leadership in the ADHD community.
Other Articles in this Edition
AuDHD, ADHD, and Autism Acceptance Month
ADHD and the Allure of the Outdoors
When Smart Children, Teens, and Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum Have ADHD
Viewing an Endless Stream of Videos Can Undermine Attention
When Smart Children, Teens, and Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum Have ADHD