Abstract

This research addresses the complex diagnostic differentiation between Autism Spectrum Disorder [ASD], bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and giftedness/high abilities, in light of a growing demand for more accurate and legally sustainable diagnoses. Inserted in a highly complex clinical and legal context, the investigation starts from the problem related to the symptomatic overlap between these conditions, which often results in misdiagnoses, self-diagnoses, and social and legal harm. The main objective was to identify psychopathological and behavioral criteria that allow a reliable distinction between these conditions. Methodologically, the gifted neoperspectivist paradigm was adopted, based on its principles of epistemological humility, justice, and inclusion, and theories such as the Theory of Mind, the Theory of Multiple Intelligences, and the Theory of Emotional Dysregulation were applied. The hypothetical-deductive method was used in all stages of the research. The scientific bibliographic and documentary narrative review was conducted rigorously, based on the Medical Hypotheses and Revista da Associação Médica Brasileira databases, using combined descriptors such as “misdiagnosis”, “giftedness”, “bipolar disorder”, “autism spectrum” and “schizophrenia”. A total of 104 high-impact scientific articles published between 2024 and 2025 were analyzed. The main findings indicate safer clinical criteria for distinguishing between conditions, reinforcing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. It is concluded that inaccurate diagnoses can be avoided with more complete protocols. Gaps were identified in longitudinal studies and in specialized professional training. Limitations involved the lack of empirical follow-up of cases. This research contributes theoretically, methodologically and socially, adding value to psychiatric practice, science and justice.

Keywords

clinical-legal outcomes, assertive protocols, symptomatic overlap, diagnostic interpretation, psychopathological differential