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McCauley JB, Pickles A, Huerta M, Lord C. Defining Positive Outcomes in More and Less Cognitively Able Autistic Adults. Autism Res 2020; 13:1548-1560. [PMID: 32851813 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Identifying positive outcomes for a wide range of intellectual abilities in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains a challenge. Several past studies of autistic adults have used outcome definitions that do not reflect the experiences of less cognitively able adults. The aim of the current study was to (1) define three domains of outcomes: autonomy, social relationships, and purpose, and (2) examine how these outcomes relate to concurrent aspects of adult functioning. Using data from a longitudinal sample of 126 adults (85% diagnosed with ASD at some point), mean age 26, who first entered the study in early childhood, we generated distinct outcomes for less (daily living skills above an 8-year-old level, having regular activities outside the home, and social contacts outside the family) and more cognitively able adults (living independently, having paid employment, and at least one true friend). Verbal IQ, assessed in adulthood, was a significant predictor of more outcomes achieved for individuals within more and less cognitively able groups. For less cognitively able adults, having ever received a formal ASD diagnosis (in contrast to current Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule [ADOS] CSS scores) was associated with lower odds of positive outcomes. For more cognitively able adults, living skills and happiness measures were positively associated with number of outcomes met; higher ADOS CSS, internalizing and externalizing symptoms, being racially diverse, and having caregiver education below college graduation were all negatively associated with the number of positive outcomes. Tailoring outcomes to ability levels may lead to better identification of goals and service needs. LAY SUMMARY: This article describes the outcomes of autistic adults who are more and less cognitively able. For less cognitively able individuals, an earlier autism diagnosis was negatively related to outcomes. Several factors that were associated with positive outcomes for more cognitively able individuals, including daily living skills, fewer mental health problems, family demographics, and subjective measures of happiness. Our study identifies several important factors for families, individuals, and service providers to consider and discuss when planning the transition to adulthood. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1548-1560. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- James B McCauley
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Andrew Pickles
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Marisela Huerta
- Centre for Autism and the Developing Brain, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Catherine Lord
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Graham Holmes L, Zampella CJ, Clements C, McCleery JP, Maddox BB, Parish-Morris J, Udhnani MD, Schultz RT, Miller JS. A Lifespan Approach to Patient-Reported Outcomes and Quality of Life for People on the Autism Spectrum. Autism Res 2020; 13:970-987. [PMID: 32154664 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 01/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Autistic self-advocates, family members, and community organizations have called for greater emphasis on enhancing quality of life (QoL) for people with autism. Doing this is critical to understand how QoL unfolds across the life course and to clarify whether gender affects QoL, health, and functioning for people with autism. The purpose of this study was to curate and test a lifespan QoL measurement tool using freely available and well-constructed National Institutes of Health Parent-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). To develop the PROMIS Autism Battery-Lifespan (PAB-L), we identified PROMIS scales relevant for autism, reviewed each item, consulted with a panel of autism experts, and elicited feedback from autistic people and family members. This battery provides a comprehensive portrait of QoL for children ages 5-13 (through parent proxy), teens 14-17 (parent proxy and self-report), and adults 18-65 (self-report) with autism compared to the general population. Participants and parent informants (N = 912) recruited through a children's hospital and nationwide U.S. autism research registry completed the PAB-L online. Results indicate that compared to general population norms, people with autism of all ages (or their proxies) reported less desirable outcomes and lower QoL across all domains. Women and girls experienced greater challenges in some areas compared to men and boys with autism. The PAB-L appears to be a feasible and acceptable method for assessing patient-reported outcomes and QoL for autistic people across the life course. Autism Res 2020, 13: 970-987. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: We developed a survey to measure the quality of life of children, teens, and adults with autism using free National Institutes of Health PROMIS questionnaires. People with autism and family members rated the PROMIS Autism Battery-Lifespan as useful and important. Some reported a good quality of life, while many reported that their lives were not going as well as they wanted. Women and girls reported more challenges in some areas of life than men and boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Graham Holmes
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Autism Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,A. J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Casey J Zampella
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Autism Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Caitlin Clements
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Autism Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Joseph P McCleery
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Autism Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Psychology and Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support, Saint Joseph's University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Brenna B Maddox
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Julia Parish-Morris
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Autism Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Manisha D Udhnani
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Autism Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Robert T Schultz
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Autism Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Judith S Miller
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Autism Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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53
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Lord C, Brugha TS, Charman T, Cusack J, Dumas G, Frazier T, Jones EJH, Jones RM, Pickles A, State MW, Taylor JL, Veenstra-VanderWeele J. Autism spectrum disorder. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2020; 6:5. [PMID: 31949163 PMCID: PMC8900942 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-019-0138-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 569] [Impact Index Per Article: 142.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is a construct used to describe individuals with a specific combination of impairments in social communication and repetitive behaviours, highly restricted interests and/or sensory behaviours beginning early in life. The worldwide prevalence of autism is just under 1%, but estimates are higher in high-income countries. Although gross brain pathology is not characteristic of autism, subtle anatomical and functional differences have been observed in post-mortem, neuroimaging and electrophysiological studies. Initially, it was hoped that accurate measurement of behavioural phenotypes would lead to specific genetic subtypes, but genetic findings have mainly applied to heterogeneous groups that are not specific to autism. Psychosocial interventions in children can improve specific behaviours, such as joint attention, language and social engagement, that may affect further development and could reduce symptom severity. However, further research is necessary to identify the long-term needs of people with autism, and treatments and the mechanisms behind them that could result in improved independence and quality of life over time. Families are often the major source of support for people with autism throughout much of life and need to be considered, along with the perspectives of autistic individuals, in both research and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Lord
- Departments of Psychiatry and School of Education, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Traolach S Brugha
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Tony Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Guillaume Dumas
- Institut Pasteur, UMR3571 CNRS, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Emily J H Jones
- Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development, University of London, London, UK
| | - Rebecca M Jones
- The Sackler Institute for Developmental Psychobiology, New York, NY, USA
- The Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, White Plains, NY, USA
| | - Andrew Pickles
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew W State
- Department of Psychiatry, Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute and Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Julie Lounds Taylor
- Department of Pediatrics and Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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Sasson NJ, Morrison KE, Kelsven S, Pinkham AE. Social cognition as a predictor of functional and social skills in autistic adults without intellectual disability. Autism Res 2019; 13:259-270. [DOI: 10.1002/aur.2195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Noah J. Sasson
- The School of Behavioral and Brain SciencesThe University of Texas at Dallas Richardson Texas
| | - Kerrianne E. Morrison
- The School of Behavioral and Brain SciencesThe University of Texas at Dallas Richardson Texas
| | - Skylar Kelsven
- The School of Behavioral and Brain SciencesThe University of Texas at Dallas Richardson Texas
| | - Amy E. Pinkham
- The School of Behavioral and Brain SciencesThe University of Texas at Dallas Richardson Texas
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Griffiths S, Allison C, Kenny R, Holt R, Smith P, Baron-Cohen S. The Vulnerability Experiences Quotient (VEQ): A Study of Vulnerability, Mental Health and Life Satisfaction in Autistic Adults. Autism Res 2019; 12:1516-1528. [PMID: 31274233 PMCID: PMC6851759 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Co‐morbid mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression are extremely common in autistic adults. Vulnerability to negative life experiences such as victimisation and unemployment may be partially responsible for the development of these conditions. Here we measure the frequency of negative life experiences in autistic adults and explore how these are associated with current anxiety and depression symptoms and life satisfaction. We developed the Vulnerability Experiences Quotient (VEQ) through stakeholder consultation. The VEQ includes 60 items across 10 domains. Autistic adults with a clinical diagnosis and non‐autistic controls completed the VEQ, screening measures for anxiety and depression, and a life‐satisfaction scale in an online survey. Likelihood of experiencing each VEQ event was compared between groups, using binary logistic regression. Mediation analysis was used to test whether total VEQ score mediated the relationship between autism and (1) depression (2) anxiety and (3) life satisfaction. Autistic adults (N = 426) reported higher rates of the majority of events in the VEQ than non‐autistic adults (N = 268). They also reported more anxiety and depression symptoms and lower life satisfaction. Group differences in anxiety, depression and life satisfaction were partially mediated by VEQ total score. This study highlights several important understudied areas of vulnerability for autistic adults, including domestic abuse, contact with social services (as parents) and financial exploitation and hardship. Improved support, advice and advocacy services are needed to reduce the vulnerability of autistic adults to negative life experiences, which may in turn improve mental health and life satisfaction in this population. Autism Res 2019, 12: 1516–1528. © 2019 The Authors. Autism Research published by International Society for Autism Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Lay Summary This study investigated whether autistic adults are more vulnerable to certain negative life experiences, and whether these experiences are related to anxiety, depression and life satisfaction. We found that autistic adults are more vulnerable to many different negative life events, including employment difficulties, financial hardship and domestic abuse. Negative life experiences partially explained the higher rates of anxiety and depression symptoms and lower life satisfaction in autistic adults compared to non‐autistic adults. Improved support services are required to reduce the vulnerability of autistic adults. Reducing vulnerability may improve mental health and increase life satisfaction in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Griffiths
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Carrie Allison
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Kenny
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Rosemary Holt
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Paula Smith
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Baron-Cohen
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,CLASS Clinic, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (CPFT), Cambridge, United Kingdom
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56
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Jozkowski AC, Wilson KP, Chasson GS, Crabtree L. Proof of concept study of the development of a survey protocol for adults with ASD participating in community-based programs. Bull Menninger Clin 2019; 83:152-174. [PMID: 31112411 DOI: 10.1521/bumc.2019.83.2.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
There is limited research regarding the effectiveness of community-based services for young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as they transition out of school and enter a more autonomous life stage. This study utilized a two-phase, mixed methods design to determine the feasibility and participant acceptability of a protocol developed to standardize an assessment of program effectiveness for young adults with ASD at a community-based center. Field notes, participant interviews, and clinical observations were combined with descriptive analysis of participant survey responses. This study offers insights into the process of effective outcomes measurement for young adults with ASD participating in community-based programs. Administration of the study's protocol is feasible; however, alternative methods of data collection should continue to be explored. Furthermore, research in the form of a pilot study is needed to further determine the protocol's facility for assessing program outcomes in young adults with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C Jozkowski
- Assistant professor, Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science, Towson University, Towson, Maryland
| | - Kaitlyn P Wilson
- Department of Audiology, Speech-Language Pathology, and Deaf Studies, Towson University
| | - Gregory S Chasson
- Associate professor, Department of Psychology, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago
| | - Lisa Crabtree
- Associate professor, Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science, Towson University, Towson, Maryland
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Franke KB, Hills K, Huebner ES, Flory K. Life Satisfaction in Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 49:1205-1218. [PMID: 30443699 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3822-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Blackburn Franke
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA.
- Autism Academy of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
| | - Kimberly Hills
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - E Scott Huebner
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Kate Flory
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
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58
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Bishop-Fitzpatrick L, Dababnah S, Baker-Ericzén MJ, Smith MJ, Magaña SM. Autism spectrum disorder and the science of social work: A grand challenge for social work research. SOCIAL WORK IN MENTAL HEALTH 2018; 17:73-92. [PMID: 31105472 PMCID: PMC6521880 DOI: 10.1080/15332985.2018.1509411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The social work profession has not yet taken a leadership role in addressing the myriad of challenges that individuals on the autism spectrum encounter across the lifespan. In this essay, we argue that social workers are well equipped to engage in research and practice aimed at promoting full and meaningful inclusion in society, as well as social and economic justice, for individuals on the autism spectrum. We highlight short- and long-term goals that provide the social work profession with a framework to engage in research, practice, education, and advocacy aimed at supporting individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mary J. Baker-Ericzén
- Child and Adolescent Services Research Center at Rady Children’s Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA
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Abstract
Mental health difficulties are highly prevalent in individuals on the autism spectrum. The current study examined how experiences and perceptions of autism acceptance could impact on the mental health of autistic adults. 111 adults on the autism spectrum completed an online survey examining their experiences of autism acceptance, along with symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Regression analyses showed that autism acceptance from external sources and personal acceptance significantly predicted depression. Acceptance from others also significantly predicted stress but acceptance did not predict anxiety. Further analyses suggested that experiences of "camouflaging" could relate to higher rates of depression. The current study highlights the importance of considering how autism acceptance could contribute to mental health in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eilidh Cage
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK.
| | - Jessica Di Monaco
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Victoria Newell
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
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60
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Abstract
Mental health difficulties are highly prevalent in individuals on the autism spectrum. The current study examined how experiences and perceptions of autism acceptance could impact on the mental health of autistic adults. 111 adults on the autism spectrum completed an online survey examining their experiences of autism acceptance, along with symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Regression analyses showed that autism acceptance from external sources and personal acceptance significantly predicted depression. Acceptance from others also significantly predicted stress but acceptance did not predict anxiety. Further analyses suggested that experiences of "camouflaging" could relate to higher rates of depression. The current study highlights the importance of considering how autism acceptance could contribute to mental health in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eilidh Cage
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK.
| | - Jessica Di Monaco
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Victoria Newell
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK
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