Abstract
The prevalence rate of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has risen over the past several decades, however, Latino youth continue to be under-identified and diagnosed at later ages when compared to Whites. Extant literature on this topic is minimal, yet inappropriate assessment practices and cultural factors have been identified as contribut- ing to the disproportionate diagnosis of ASD and access to services among Latinos. The delay of services has implica- tions for poor long-term life outcomes, thus, it is imperative for Latino youth to be identified earlier and receive qual- ity services. The purpose of this paper is to explore the factors contributing to this trend of a later diagnosis of ASD among Latino youth. Additionally, best practices for training school psychologists in identifying Latino youth with ASD and increasing the awareness of the disorder and the availability of services for Latino families are discussed.
