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Wu D, Wolff JJ, Ravi S, Elison JT, Estes A, Paterson S, St John T, Abdi H, Moraglia LE, Piven J, Swanson MR. Infants who develop autism show smaller inventories of deictic and symbolic gestures at 12 months of age. Autism Res 2024; 17:838-851. [PMID: 38204321 PMCID: PMC11014769 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Gestures are an important social communication skill that infants and toddlers use to convey their thoughts, ideas, and intentions. Research suggests that early gesture use has important downstream impacts on developmental processes, such as language learning. However, autistic children are more likely to have challenges in their gestural development. The current study expands upon previous literature on the differences in gesture use between young autistic and non-autistic toddlers by collecting data using a parent-report questionnaire called the MCDI-Words and Gestures at three time points, 12, 18, and 24 months of age. Results (N = 467) showed that high-likelihood infants who later met diagnostic criteria for ASD (n = 73 HL-ASD) have attenuated gesture growth from 12 to 24 months for both deictic gestures and symbolic gestures when compared to high-likelihood infants who later did not meet criteria for ASD (n = 249 HL-Neg) and low-likelihood infants who did not meet criteria for ASD (n = 145 LL-Neg). Other social communicative skills, like play behaviors and imitation, were also found to be impacted in young autistic children when compared to their non-autistic peers. Understanding early differences in social communication growth before a formal autism diagnosis can provide important insights for early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Wu
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas, USA
| | - Jason J Wolff
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Shruthi Ravi
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas, USA
| | - Jed T Elison
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Annette Estes
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sarah Paterson
- James S. McDonnell Foundation, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Tanya St John
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Hervé Abdi
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas, USA
| | - Luke E Moraglia
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas, USA
| | - Joseph Piven
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Meghan R Swanson
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas, USA
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2
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Del Rosario C, Nixon E, Quigley J, Whitehouse AJO, Maybery MT. Parent-child interaction and developmental outcomes in children with typical and elevated likelihood of autism. Infant Behav Dev 2023; 71:101830. [PMID: 36848788 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2023.101830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early parent-child interactions have a critical impact on the developmental outcomes of the child. It has been reported that infants with a family history of autism and their parents may engage in different patterns of behaviours during interaction compared to those without a family history of autism. This study investigated the association of parent-child interactions with child developmental outcomes of those with typical and elevated likelihood of autism. METHOD This longitudinal study investigated the relationship between global attributes of parent-child interaction and the developmental outcomes of infant siblings with elevated likelihood (EL: n = 29) or typical likelihood (TL: n = 39) of developing autism. Parent-child interactions were recorded during a session of free-play when the infants were six months of age. Developmental assessments were carried out when the children were 12 and 24 months of age. RESULTS The intensity of mutuality was significantly higher in the TL group than in the EL group, and developmental outcomes were poorer in the EL group when compared to the TL group. Positive associations between parent-child interaction scores at six months and developmental outcomes at 12 months were observed only in the TL group. However, in the EL group, higher levels of infant positive affect and attentiveness paid to the caregiver is associated with lower autism symptoms. Due to the sample size and design of the study, the findings must be viewed as indicative. CONCLUSION This preliminary investigation demonstrated differences in the association between parent-child interaction quality and developmental outcomes for children with typical and elevated likelihood for autism. Future studies should combine micro-analytic and macro-analytic approaches to parent-child interaction to further examine the nature of this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelo Del Rosario
- School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Áras an Phiarsaigh, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Elizabeth Nixon
- School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Áras an Phiarsaigh, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Jean Quigley
- School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Áras an Phiarsaigh, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Andrew J O Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth Children's Hospital, 15 Hospital Avenue, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Murray T Maybery
- School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, Australia
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Costanzo V, Narzisi A, Cerullo S, Crifaci G, Boncoddo M, Turi M, Apicella F, Tancredi R, Muratori F, Calderoni S, Billeci L. High-Risk Siblings without Autism: Insights from a Clinical and Eye-Tracking Study. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12111789. [PMID: 36573785 PMCID: PMC9699372 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12111789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Joint attention (JA)-the human ability to coordinate our attention with that of other people-is impaired in the early stage of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, little is known about the JA skills in the younger siblings of children with ASD who do not develop ASD at 36 months of age [high-risk (HR)-noASD]. In order to advance our understanding of this topic, a prospective multicenter observational study was conducted with three groups of toddlers (age range: 18-33 months): 17 with ASD, 19 with HR-noASD and 16 with typical development (TD). All subjects underwent a comprehensive clinical assessment and an eye-tracking experiment with pre-recorded stimuli in which the visual patterns during two tasks eliciting initiating joint attention (IJA) were measured. Specifically, fixations, transitions and alternating gaze were analyzed. Clinical evaluation revealed that HR-noASD subjects had lower non-verbal cognitive skills than TD children, while similar levels of restricted and repetitive behaviors and better social communication skills were detected in comparison with ASD children. Eye-tracking paradigms indicated that HR-noASD toddlers had visual patterns resembling TD in terms of target-object-to-face gaze alternations, while their looking behaviors were similar to ASD toddlers regarding not-target-object-to-face gaze alternations. This study indicated that high-risk, unaffected siblings displayed a shared profile of IJA-eye-tracking measures with both ASD patients and TD controls, providing new insights into the characterization of social attention in this group of toddlers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Costanzo
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Calambrone, Italy
| | - Antonio Narzisi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Calambrone, Italy
| | - Sonia Cerullo
- Child Psychopathology Unit, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Via Don Luigi Monza 20, Bosisio Parini, 22040 Lecco, Italy
| | - Giulia Crifaci
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Boncoddo
- Interdepartmental Program “Autism 0-90”, “G. Martino” University Hospital of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | - Marco Turi
- Stella Maris Mediterraneo Foundation, 85032 Chiaromonte, Italy
| | - Fabio Apicella
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Calambrone, Italy
| | - Raffaella Tancredi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Calambrone, Italy
| | - Filippo Muratori
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Calambrone, Italy
| | - Sara Calderoni
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, 56128 Calambrone, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +39-050-886200
| | - Lucia Billeci
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 56124 Pisa, Italy
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Westby C. Playing to Pretend or "Pretending" to Play: Play in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Semin Speech Lang 2022; 43:331-346. [PMID: 35896409 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1750348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit early delays and deficits in play. In infancy, they engage in unusual exploratory behaviors with toys. As toddlers, they are slow to develop functional play, and in preschool some children with ASD fail to develop symbolic play despite having the necessary cognitive and language skills. Furthermore, when children with ASD are engaged in play, they demonstrate less playfulness. This article reviews the literature on the characteristics of exploratory, functional, and symbolic/pretend play in children with ASD and possible reasons for their unusual patterns of play development. Increased quantity and quality of play are frequent therapeutic goals for children with ASD. If play interventions are to be successful, it is critical that speech-language pathologists have an adequate assessment of children's play skills. Several frameworks and tools appropriate for assessing play in typical children and children with ASD are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Westby
- Bilingual Multicultural Services in Albuquerque, Albuquerque, New Mexico
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5
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Moerman F, Warreyn P, Demurie E, Boterberg S, Vermeirsch J, Roeyers H. Play in Relation to Autism Traits in Young Children at Elevated Likelihood for Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 53:1413-1430. [PMID: 34668127 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05326-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Play of younger siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (siblings; n = 44), very preterm children (preterms; n = 44), and children at typical likelihood for ASD (n = 36) was observed at 24 months. Children with ASD and atypical development engaged less in spontaneous (pre-)symbolic play than typically developing children. Total duration of spontaneous and elicited (pre-)symbolic play was associated with later ASD traits in siblings. However, no association between most play variables and ASD traits was found in preterms. This suggests possible different ASD-trajectories between siblings and preterms. Thus, spontaneous (pre-)symbolic play may be indicative of developmental challenges across several populations, and results highlight the need to move beyond studying only siblings in order to broaden our understanding of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Floor Moerman
- Research in Developmental Disorders Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Petra Warreyn
- Research in Developmental Disorders Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ellen Demurie
- Research in Developmental Disorders Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sofie Boterberg
- Research in Developmental Disorders Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Julie Vermeirsch
- Research in Developmental Disorders Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Herbert Roeyers
- Research in Developmental Disorders Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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Canu D, Van der Paelt S, Canal-Bedia R, Posada M, Vanvuchelen M, Roeyers H. Early non-social behavioural indicators of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD: a systematic review. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 30:497-538. [PMID: 32088859 PMCID: PMC8041710 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-020-01487-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We aimed at identifying early non-social behavioural indicators that predict later ASD. Likewise, we were interested in the moment in which non-social signs discriminate between children at elevated likelihood for ASD with a later diagnosis of ASD, and children at elevated likelihood for ASD with a typical developmental outcome. In addition, we intended to explore the developmental evolution of children's symptomatology over time. A systematic literature search was conducted for longitudinal studies on early non-social behavioural indicators among siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD. The following databases were searched: PUBMED, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL and EMBASE. The study identification process was conducted by two reviewers independently. Compared to siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD with a typical developmental outcome, siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD with later ASD show impairments in attention disengagement, in gross and fine motor development and characteristic restricted and repetitive interests and behaviours, starting at 12 months of age. Moreover, early attention disengagement exerts a predictive role towards a later ASD diagnosis, given that from 12 months siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD who will receive an independent ASD diagnosis towards 24-36 months present marked difficulties in disengaging in comparison with siblings at elevated likelihood for ASD that will not satisfy the criteria for an ASD diagnosis. The findings call for a more comprehensive vision on early indicators of ASD. Further research is needed to extend results to other behavioural domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Canu
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Rehabilitation Research Center (REVAL), Hasselt Unversity, Agoralaan, Building A, 3590 Diepenbeek, Hasselt, Belgium.
- Research in Developmental Disorders Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
- Clinic for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Sara Van der Paelt
- Research in Developmental Disorders Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ricardo Canal-Bedia
- Instituto Universitario de Integración en la Comunidad (INICO), University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Manuel Posada
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research & CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marleen Vanvuchelen
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Rehabilitation Research Center (REVAL), Hasselt Unversity, Agoralaan, Building A, 3590 Diepenbeek, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Herbert Roeyers
- Research in Developmental Disorders Lab, Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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7
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Observed Social Emotional Behavior at 22 Months Predicts a Later ASD Diagnosis in High-Risk Siblings. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 51:3187-3198. [PMID: 33200351 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04789-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Social engagement, pretend play, and concern for another's distress represent fundamental features of typical social-emotional development in the second year. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) display delays and deficits in these areas, and research on toddlers at heightened risk for ASD (HR; younger siblings of children with ASD) indicates these deficits may be apparent in toddlerhood. Prior research has examined these aspects of social-emotional development individually in HR toddlers. The present paper examines them jointly as predictors of ASD. We show that social engagement, pretend play, and empathic concern at 22-months each contribute uniquely to predicting later ASD diagnosis with high specificity and moderate sensitivity. Results have important implications for early diagnosis and intervention in young children with ASD.
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Early behavioral markers for neurodevelopmental disorders in the first 3 years of life: An overview of systematic reviews. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 116:183-201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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9
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Fanning PAJ, Sparaci L, Dissanayake C, Hocking DR, Vivanti G. Functional play in young children with autism and Williams syndrome: A cross-syndrome comparison. Child Neuropsychol 2020; 27:125-149. [DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2020.1804846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. J. Fanning
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
- Developmental Neuromotor & Cognition Lab, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Laura Sparaci
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London (UCL), London, UK
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies (STC), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Cheryl Dissanayake
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Darren R. Hocking
- Developmental Neuromotor & Cognition Lab, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Giacomo Vivanti
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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10
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West KL, Roemer EJ, Northrup JB, Iverson JM. Profiles of Early Actions and Gestures in Infants With an Older Sibling With Autism Spectrum Disorder. JOURNAL OF SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND HEARING RESEARCH : JSLHR 2020; 63:1195-1211. [PMID: 32302252 PMCID: PMC7242984 DOI: 10.1044/2019_jslhr-19-00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Infants with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) produce fewer play actions and gestures than neurotypical infants (e.g., Mastrogiuseppe et al., 2015; Veness et al., 2012; Zwaigenbaum et al., 2005). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether different "types" of actions and gestures are more or less likely to develop atypically in ASD. Method We examined eight types of actions and gestures longitudinally from ages 8 to 14 months in 80 infants with a heightened risk for developing ASD by virtue of having an affected older sibling (high risk [HR]; e.g., Ozonoff et al., 2011) and 25 infants with no such familial risk (low risk). Data were collected using the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventories (Fenson et al., 1994, 1993). Results HR infants later diagnosed with ASD showed less growth across nearly all types of actions and gestures compared to the low-risk comparison group. Importantly, these HR infants who were later diagnosed with ASD also exhibited reduced growth in frequent deictic gestures and in actions that involve object manipulation relative to HR infants with non-ASD language delay. Conclusions During infancy, it is challenging for clinicians to distinguish ASD from other early communicative delays (e.g., Camarata, 2014). Our results indicate that deictic gestures, as well as actions and gestures involving object manipulation, may be useful targets of surveillance strategies for HR infants and could support early detection efforts for ASD.
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11
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Schadenberg BR, Reidsma D, Heylen DKJ, Evers V. Differences in Spontaneous Interactions of Autistic Children in an Interaction With an Adult and Humanoid Robot. Front Robot AI 2020; 7:28. [PMID: 33501197 PMCID: PMC7805683 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2020.00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Robots are promising tools for promoting engagement of autistic children in interventions and thereby increasing the amount of learning opportunities. However, designing deliberate robot behavior aimed at engaging autistic children remains challenging. Our current understanding of what interactions with a robot, or facilitated by a robot, are particularly motivating to autistic children is limited to qualitative reports with small sample sizes. Translating insights from these reports to design is difficult due to the large individual differences among autistic children in their needs, interests, and abilities. To address these issues, we conducted a descriptive study and report on an analysis of how 31 autistic children spontaneously interacted with a humanoid robot and an adult within the context of a robot-assisted intervention, as well as which individual characteristics were associated with the observed interactions. For this analysis, we used video recordings of autistic children engaged in a robot-assisted intervention that were recorded as part of the DE-ENIGMA database. The results showed that the autistic children frequently engaged in exploratory and functional interactions with the robot spontaneously, as well as in interactions with the adult that were elicited by the robot. In particular, we observed autistic children frequently initiating interactions aimed at making the robot do a certain action. Autistic children with stronger language ability, social functioning, and fewer autism spectrum-related symptoms, initiated more functional interactions with the robot and more robot-elicited interactions with the adult. We conclude that the children's individual characteristics, in particular the child's language ability, can be indicative of which types of interaction they are more likely to find interesting. Taking these into account for the design of deliberate robot behavior, coupled with providing more autonomy over the robot's behavior to the autistic children, appears promising for promoting engagement and facilitating more learning opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bob R Schadenberg
- Human Media Interaction, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Dennis Reidsma
- Human Media Interaction, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Dirk K J Heylen
- Human Media Interaction, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Vanessa Evers
- Human Media Interaction, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands.,Institute of Science and Technology for Humanity, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
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Zuccarini M, Guarini A, Iverson JM, Benassi E, Savini S, Alessandroni R, Faldella G, Sansavini A. Does early object exploration support gesture and language development in extremely preterm infants and full-term infants? JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2018; 76:91-100. [PMID: 30300842 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcomdis.2018.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing body of research on typically and atypically developing infants has shown that motor skills play an important role in language development. To date, however, the role of specific object exploration skills for early gesture and vocabulary development has not been investigated in extremely low gestational age infants (ELGA, GA < 28 weeks), who are at greater risk for motor and language delays than full-term (FT) infants. PURPOSE This longitudinal study examined relations between 6-month active exploratory behaviors and 12- month word comprehension, gestures and vocal production, controlling for cognitive performance and neonatal condition (ELGA vs FT). METHODS Forty infants, 20 ELGA and 20 FT, and their mothers participated in the study. Mother-infant play interaction was video-recorded at 6 and 12 months. Oral and manual object exploration at 6 months and spontaneous gestures and vocal production at 12 months were coded. Word comprehension was evaluated with the Italian version of the MacArthur-Bates CDI parent questionnaire at 12 months. Cognitive performance was examined with the Griffiths Mental Developmental Scales at 6 months and the Bayley-III Scales at 12 months. RESULTS Regression analyses showed that after accounting for cognitive performance and neonatal condition, oral exploration was related to word comprehension, and manual exploration to gestures and vocal production in the overall sample. CONCLUSIONS Cascading effects of specific object exploration skills on gestures and language comprehension and production in preterm infants and FT infants are discussed. Clinical implications for early assessment of and interventions involving object exploration skills, which may affect language development, are considered for the preterm population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Erika Benassi
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Savini
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Rosina Alessandroni
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit-S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giacomo Faldella
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit-S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
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13
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Sparaci L, Northrup JB, Capirci O, Iverson JM. From Using Tools to Using Language in Infant Siblings of Children with Autism. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 48:2319-2334. [PMID: 29429008 PMCID: PMC6592270 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3477-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Forty-one high-risk infants (HR) with an older sibling with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were observed longitudinally at 10, 12, 18 and 24 months of age during a tool use task in a play-like scenario. Changes in grasp types and functional actions produced with a spoon were assessed during elicited tool use. Outcome and vocabulary measures were available at 36 months, distinguishing: 11 HR-ASD, 15 HR-language delay and 15 HR-no delay. Fewer HR-ASD infants produced grasp types facilitating spoon use at 24 months and functional actions at 10 months than HR-no delay. Production of functional actions in HR infants at 10 months predicted word comprehension at 12 months and word production at 24 and 36 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sparaci
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies (ISTC), National Research Council (CNR) of Italy, Via Nomentana 56, 00161, Rome, Italy.
- UCL Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, Experimental Psychology, University College London, 26 Bedford Way, London, WC1H 0AP, UK.
| | - Jessie B Northrup
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 3309 Sennott Square, 210 S. Bouquet St., Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Olga Capirci
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies (ISTC), National Research Council (CNR) of Italy, Via Nomentana 56, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Jana M Iverson
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 3415 Sennott Square, 201 S. Bouquet St., Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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14
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Küçük Ö, Ulaş G, Yaylacı F, Miral S. Geniş Otizm Fenotipi. PSIKIYATRIDE GUNCEL YAKLASIMLAR - CURRENT APPROACHES IN PSYCHIATRY 2018. [DOI: 10.18863/pgy.358099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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15
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Bai Y, Qiu S, Li Y, Li Y, Zhong W, Shi M, Zhu X, Jiang H, Yu Y, Cheng Y, Liu Y. Genetic association between SHANK2 polymorphisms and susceptibility to autism spectrum disorder. IUBMB Life 2018; 70:763-776. [PMID: 29934968 DOI: 10.1002/iub.1876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as one of early-onset neurodevelopmental disorders, is characterized by the following symptoms, including repetitive and stereotyped behaviors, impairments in social interaction, and dysfunctions in communication. ASD afflicts ∼1.5% of children aged 8 years in America and ∼4.5‰ of children aged 0-6 years in China. Existing studies suggest that SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains protein 2 (SHANK2) is implicated in ASD. However, associations between SNPs in SHANK2 introns and ASD risk have been less investigated. In this study, on the basis of case-control study (226 cases and 239 controls), we selected nine SNPs (rs76717360, rs11236697, rs74336682, rs77950809, rs17428526, rs35459123, rs75357229, rs61887413, and rs77716438) in SHANK2 introns to investigate genetic associations between SHANK2 polymorphisms and susceptibility to ASD using improved multiple ligase detection reaction (iMLDR). We identified that the polymorphism of rs76717360 was associated with risk of ASD in Chinese population; the haplotype of rs11236697 C (T) or rs74336682 G (A) increased ASD risk; and haplotypes with ≥ five SNPs containing rs11236697 and rs74336682 were associated with risk of ASD. Our results indicate SHANK2 is a susceptibility gene for ASD in Chinese children. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(8):763-776, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Bai
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Shuang Qiu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Weijing Zhong
- Chunguang Rehabilitation Hospital, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Meijuan Shi
- Chunguang Rehabilitation Hospital, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xiaojuan Zhu
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Epigenetics of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Huiyi Jiang
- The Second Department of Pediatrics, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yaqin Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yi Cheng
- The Cardiovascular Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yawen Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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Bacon EC, Courchesne E, Barnes CC, Cha D, Pence S, Schreibman L, Stahmer AC, Pierce K. Rethinking the idea of late autism spectrum disorder onset. Dev Psychopathol 2018; 30:553-569. [PMID: 28803559 PMCID: PMC10515446 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579417001067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
A common theory of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptom onset includes toddlers who do not display symptoms until well after age 2, which are termed late-onset ASD cases. Objectives were to analyze differences in clinical phenotype between toddlers identified as ASD at initial evaluations (early diagnosed) versus those initially considered nonspectrum, then later identified as ASD (late diagnosed). Two hundred seventy-three toddlers recruited from the general population based on a failed developmental screening form or parent or physician concerns were followed longitudinally from 12 months and identified as early- and late-diagnosed cases of ASD, language delayed, or typically developing. Toddlers completed common standardized assessments and experimental eye-tracking and observational measures every 9-12 months until age 3. Longitudinal performance on standardized assessments and experimental tests from initial evaluations were compared. Delay in social communication skills was seen in both ASD groups at early-age initial assessment, including increased preference for nonsocial stimuli, increased stereotypic play, reduced exploration, and use of gestures. On standardized psychometric assessments, early-diagnosed toddlers showed more impairment initially while late-diagnosed toddlers showed a slowing in language acquisition. Similar social communication impairments were present at very early ages in both early-detected ASD and so-called late-onset ASD. Data indicate ASD is present whether detected or not by current methods, and development of more sensitive tools is needed.
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Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptoms in Infants with Fragile X Syndrome: A Prospective Case Series. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:1628-1644. [PMID: 28281129 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3081-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
No studies to date have prospectively examined early autism spectrum disorder (ASD) markers in infants with fragile X syndrome (FXS), who are at elevated risk for ASD. This paper describes the developmental profiles of eight infants with FXS from 9 to 24 months of age. Four meet diagnostic criteria for ASD at 24 months of age, and four do not. Trends in these case studies suggest that early social-communicative deficits differentiate infants with and without later ASD diagnoses in ways that are similar to later-born siblings of children with ASD. Repetitive behaviors and cognitive and adaptive impairments are present in all FXS infants throughout development, suggesting that these deficits reflect the general FXS phenotype and not ASD in FXS specifically.
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18
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Campbell SB, Leezenbaum NB, Mahoney AS, Moore EL, Brownell CA. Pretend Play and Social Engagement in Toddlers at High and Low Genetic Risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 46:2305-16. [PMID: 26931334 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-2764-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Toddlers with an older sibling with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and low risk (LR) toddlers with typically-developing older siblings were observed during free play with a parent and elicited pretend with an examiner at 22-months. Functional and pretend play, children's social engagement, and parent sensitivity were assessed during free play. Complexity of play was assessed during the elicited pretend task. Toddlers with an ASD diagnosis showed less pretend play across contexts and less social engagement with parents or the examiner than either LR toddlers or high risk toddlers without a diagnosis (HR-noASD). Lower levels of pretend play and social engagement were associated with symptom severity within the high risk group, reflecting emerging ASD in toddlerhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan B Campbell
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 South Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
| | - Nina B Leezenbaum
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 South Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.,University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Amanda S Mahoney
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 South Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Elizabeth L Moore
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 South Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Celia A Brownell
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 South Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
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19
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Schertz HH, Odom SL, Baggett KM, Sideris JH. Parent-Reported Repetitive Behavior in Toddlers on the Autism Spectrum. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 46:3308-16. [PMID: 27460002 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-2870-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were assessed on the Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS-R), which we found to have acceptable internal consistency. Stereotypical subscale scores showed a negligible association with cognitive level, but correlated more strongly with adaptive and social indicators. Relative to earlier reported RBS-R scores for older age groups, toddlers' scores trended toward higher stereotyped behavior and lower ritualistic/sameness behavior. Our findings on associations with developmental indicators align with those of researchers who used more resource-intensive repetitive behavior measures. The convergence of these findings with those derived from other measurement methods suggests that the RBS-R, a cost effective parent-report measure, is a viable means of assessing repetitive behavior in toddlers with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah H Schertz
- Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Indiana University School of Education, 201 N Rose Ave., Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA.
| | - Samuel L Odom
- Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, University of North Carolina, 105 Smith Level Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Kathleen M Baggett
- Juniper Gardens Children's Project, University of Kansas, 444 Minnesota Ave., Kansas, KS, 66101, USA
| | - John H Sideris
- Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, University of North Carolina, 105 Smith Level Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
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20
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Campbell SB, Mahoney AS, Northrup J, Moore EL, Leezenbaum NB, Brownell CA. Developmental Changes in Pretend Play from 22- to 34-Months in Younger Siblings of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. JOURNAL OF ABNORMAL CHILD PSYCHOLOGY 2017; 46:639-654. [PMID: 28685398 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-017-0324-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Developmental trajectories of children's pretend play and social engagement, as well as parent sensitivity and stimulation, were examined in toddlers with an older sibling with autism spectrum disorder (ASD, high risk; HR) and toddlers with typically-developing older siblings (low risk; LR). Children (N = 168, 97 boys, 71 girls) were observed at 22, 28, and 34 months during free play with a parent and elicited pretend play with an examiner. At 28 and 34 months, children were asked to imagine the consequences of actions pantomimed by the examiner on a pretend transformation task. At 36 months children were assessed for ASD, yielding 3 groups for comparison: HR children with ASD, HR children without ASD (HR-noASD), and LR children. Children in all 3 groups showed developmental changes, engaging in more bouts of pretend play and obtaining higher scores on the elicited pretend and transformation tasks with age, but children with ASD lagged behind the other 2 groups on most measures. Children with ASD were also less engaged with their parents or the examiner during play interactions than either LR or HR-noASD children, with minimal developmental change evident. Parents, regardless of group, were highly engaged with their children, but parents of HR-noASD children received somewhat higher ratings on stimulation than parents of LR children. Most group differences were not accounted for by cognitive functioning. Instead, lower social engagement appears to be an important correlate of less advanced pretend skills, with implications for understanding the early development of children with ASD and for early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan B Campbell
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 South Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
| | - Amanda S Mahoney
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 South Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Jessie Northrup
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 South Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Elizabeth L Moore
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 South Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | | | - Celia A Brownell
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 South Bouquet Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
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21
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Wilson KP, Carter MW, Wiener HL, DeRamus ML, Bulluck JC, Watson LR, Crais ER, Baranek GT. Object play in infants with autism spectrum disorder: A longitudinal retrospective video analysis. AUTISM & DEVELOPMENTAL LANGUAGE IMPAIRMENTS 2017; 2:10.1177/2396941517713186. [PMID: 28890936 PMCID: PMC5584880 DOI: 10.1177/2396941517713186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Early play behaviors may provide important information regarding later-diagnosed developmental delays. Play behaviors of young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are restricted in diversity, frequency, and complexity. Most ASD research focuses on play in children over 18 months of age. This study examined three groups of infants (later diagnosed with ASD, later diagnosed with other developmental disorders, and typically developing) with the aims of: (1) describing the play behaviors of the three groups of infants at two time points (9-12 months and 15-18 months); (2) examining group differences in four hierarchical levels of play at both time points; (3) comparing groups with respect to the highest level of play achieved; and (4) determining if the highest level of play achieved by infants with developmental delays, including ASD, correlated with later developmental outcomes. METHODS The current study used longitudinal retrospective video analysis to examine object play behaviors of the three groups of infants (total n=92) at two time points (time 1: 9-12 months of age, and time 2: 15-18 months of age). Coding of play behaviors was based on existing literature and distribution of data from the current study. Developmental outcomes examined were measured using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Childhood Autism Rating Scale, and a non-verbal developmental quotient calculated using visual reception scores from the Mullen Scales for Early Learning. RESULTS Results indicate group differences in play, with infants later diagnosed with ASD showing significantly less sophisticated play than those with typical development. In addition, modest but significant correlations were found between highest level of play achieved at time 2 (15-18 months) and later outcomes for those with developmental disorders, including ASD. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Results suggest that examination of infant play behaviors is important for early screening and intervention planning to potentially mitigate effects on later developmental outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn P Wilson
- Towson University Department of Audiology, Speech-Language Pathology, and Deaf Studies; 8000 York Road Towson, MD 21252; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Allied Health Sciences; Bondurant Hall CB #7120 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-712;
| | - Mary W Carter
- Towson University Department of Interprofessional Health Studies; 8000 York Rd Towson, MD 21252;
| | - Heather L Wiener
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Allied Health Sciences; Bondurant Hall CB #7120 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7120,
| | - Margaret L DeRamus
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Allied Health Sciences; Bondurant Hall CB #7120 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7120;
| | - John C Bulluck
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Allied Health Sciences; Program for Early Autism Research, Leadership & Service, Bondurant Hall CB #7120 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7120;
| | - Linda R Watson
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Allied Health Sciences; Program for Early Autism Research, Leadership & Service, Bondurant Hall CB #7120 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7120;
| | - Elizabeth R Crais
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Allied Health Sciences; Program for Early Autism Research, Leadership & Service, Bondurant Hall CB #7120 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7120;
| | - Grace T Baranek
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Allied Health Sciences; Program for Early Autism Research, Leadership & Service, Bondurant Hall CB #7120 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7120;
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22
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Uljarević M, Evans DW, Alvares GA, Whitehouse AJO. Short report: relationship between restricted and repetitive behaviours in children with autism spectrum disorder and their parents. Mol Autism 2016; 7:29. [PMID: 27303619 PMCID: PMC4906972 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-016-0091-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Restricted and repetitive behaviours (RRBs) constitute a core symptom domain of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the nature of RRBs in the context of the Broader Autism Phenotype (BAP) is not well understood. In particular, the relationship between RRBs in ASD probands and their parents remains largely unexplored. The current study explored the link between parental RRBs, measured via Interest in Patterns and Resistance to Changes subscales of the Autism Quotient and their children's RRBs, measured via Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule RRB standardized domain score. FINDINGS Having both parents within the top 20% of their RRB scores was associated with an increase of RRB scores for their children; however, no parent-of-origin effects were identified. Although the trend was observed for both Interest in Patterns and Resistance to Changes subscale, it was only statistically significant for Interest in Patterns. CONCLUSIONS This paper provides significant contribution to our understanding of association between RRBs in parents and their children with ASD. Future work should also address the BAP in distinct genetic subtypes (whole chromosome aneuploidies, single gene mutations, copy number variations) of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders that involve RRBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Uljarević
- />Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundora, Victoria 3086 Australia
- />Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Long Pocket, Brisbane, Queensland Australia
| | - David W. Evans
- />Department of Psychology, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA USA
| | - Gail A. Alvares
- />Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA Australia
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23
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Harrop C, Gulsrud A, Shih W, Hovsepyan L, Kasari C. Characterizing caregiver responses to restricted and repetitive behaviors in toddlers with autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2016; 20:330-42. [PMID: 25948600 DOI: 10.1177/1362361315580443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Restricted and repetitive behaviors are a core feature of autism spectrum disorder. This descriptive study documented the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors in 85 toddlers with autism spectrum disorder as they interacted with their caregiver in a play interaction. For each child restricted and repetitive behavior, a caregiver response/non-response was coded. Caregiver responses were rated as successful or unsuccessful. In all, 83 toddlers demonstrated at least one restricted and repetitive behavior in 10 min. The most common child restricted and repetitive behavior was repetitive object use with 72 children displaying at least one instance of this category of restricted and repetitive behavior. Overall, caregivers responded to fewer than half of their child's restricted and repetitive behaviors, and caregiver response varied by child restricted and repetitive behavior type. The most common response was redirection. Success varied by child restricted and repetitive behavior type and caregiver response--redirections were most successful for child verbal and motor restricted and repetitive behaviors, whereas physical or verbal responses were rated more successful for repetitive object use and visual restricted and repetitive behaviors. This study represents the first attempt to characterize how caregivers respond to restricted and repetitive behaviors. Toddlers with autism spectrum disorder are already demonstrating a variety of restricted and repetitive behaviors within the context of a free play sessions, and caregivers differentially and naturally respond to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Harrop
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
| | | | - Wendy Shih
- University of California Los Angeles, USA
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24
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Given the high autism spectrum disorder (ASD) recurrence risk in younger siblings, it is important to identify early ASD markers within this high-risk population. Although there is increasing evidence that the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers-Revised, with Follow-Up Interview can identify many low-risk children during the second year of life, there has yet to be a study of how the M-CHAT-R/F functions in a high-risk sibling population at very young ages. METHODS As part of a larger population-based study, the authors screened 74 infant siblings with the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers-Revised, with Follow-Up Interview at 18 months and assessed diagnoses between the ages of 18 and 43 months. RESULTS The M-CHAT-R/F had the highest positive predictive value for identifying children at risk of any developmental concern (i.e., ASD, language delay). Overall, 33% of siblings who presented for follow-up evaluations received ASD diagnoses with an additional 22% showing other developmental concerns. CONCLUSION Failing the M-CHAT-R/F at 18 months of age raises significant concern that a child will show some degree of developmental difference or delay over time. These findings highlight the need for close developmental monitoring of this high-risk sample.
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25
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Early detection of autism spectrum disorders: From retrospective home video studies to prospective ‘high risk’ sibling studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 55:627-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Revised: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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26
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Pisula E, Ziegart-Sadowska K. Broader Autism Phenotype in Siblings of Children with ASD--A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:13217-58. [PMID: 26068453 PMCID: PMC4490493 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160613217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although less pronounced, social, cognitive, and personality characteristics associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) may be present in people who do not meet ASD diagnostic criteria, especially in first-degree relatives of individuals with ASD. Research on these characteristics, referred to as broader autism phenotype (BAP), provides valuable data on potential expressions of autism-specific deficits in the context of family relations. This paper offers a review of research on BAP in siblings of individuals with ASD, focusing on reports regarding social, communication, and cognitive deficits, published from 1993 to 2014. The studies are divided into two groups based on participants’ age: papers on preschool and older siblings of individuals with ASD; and publications on infants at risk for ASD. On the basis of this review, suggestions are offered for further research and its significance for our understanding of the genetic determinants of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Pisula
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Warsaw, Stawki 5/7, 00-183 Warsaw, Poland.
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27
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McConachie H, Parr JR, Glod M, Hanratty J, Livingstone N, Oono IP, Robalino S, Baird G, Beresford B, Charman T, Garland D, Green J, Gringras P, Jones G, Law J, Le Couteur AS, Macdonald G, McColl EM, Morris C, Rodgers J, Simonoff E, Terwee CB, Williams K. Systematic review of tools to measure outcomes for young children with autism spectrum disorder. Health Technol Assess 2015; 19:1-506. [PMID: 26065374 PMCID: PMC4781156 DOI: 10.3310/hta19410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The needs of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are complex and this is reflected in the number and diversity of outcomes assessed and measurement tools used to collect evidence about children's progress. Relevant outcomes include improvement in core ASD impairments, such as communication, social awareness, sensory sensitivities and repetitiveness; skills such as social functioning and play; participation outcomes such as social inclusion; and parent and family impact. OBJECTIVES To examine the measurement properties of tools used to measure progress and outcomes in children with ASD up to the age of 6 years. To identify outcome areas regarded as important by people with ASD and parents. METHODS The MeASURe (Measurement in Autism Spectrum disorder Under Review) research collaboration included ASD experts and review methodologists. We undertook systematic review of tools used in ASD early intervention and observational studies from 1992 to 2013; systematic review, using the COSMIN checklist (Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments) of papers addressing the measurement properties of identified tools in children with ASD; and synthesis of evidence and gaps. The review design and process was informed throughout by consultation with stakeholders including parents, young people with ASD, clinicians and researchers. RESULTS The conceptual framework developed for the review was drawn from the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, including the domains 'Impairments', 'Activity Level Indicators', 'Participation', and 'Family Measures'. In review 1, 10,154 papers were sifted - 3091 by full text - and data extracted from 184; in total, 131 tools were identified, excluding observational coding, study-specific measures and those not in English. In review 2, 2665 papers were sifted and data concerning measurement properties of 57 (43%) tools were extracted from 128 papers. Evidence for the measurement properties of the reviewed tools was combined with information about their accessibility and presentation. Twelve tools were identified as having the strongest supporting evidence, the majority measuring autism characteristics and problem behaviour. The patchy evidence and limited scope of outcomes measured mean these tools do not constitute a 'recommended battery' for use. In particular, there is little evidence that the identified tools would be good at detecting change in intervention studies. The obvious gaps in available outcome measurement include well-being and participation outcomes for children, and family quality-of-life outcomes, domains particularly valued by our informants (young people with ASD and parents). CONCLUSIONS This is the first systematic review of the quality and appropriateness of tools designed to monitor progress and outcomes of young children with ASD. Although it was not possible to recommend fully robust tools at this stage, the review consolidates what is known about the field and will act as a benchmark for future developments. With input from parents and other stakeholders, recommendations are made about priority targets for research. FUTURE WORK Priorities include development of a tool to measure child quality of life in ASD, and validation of a potential primary outcome tool for trials of early social communication intervention. STUDY REGISTRATION This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42012002223. FUNDING The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen McConachie
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jeremy R Parr
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Magdalena Glod
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jennifer Hanratty
- School of Sociology, Social Policy and Social Work, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Nuala Livingstone
- School of Sociology, Social Policy and Social Work, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Inalegwu P Oono
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Shannon Robalino
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Gillian Baird
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Tony Charman
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Deborah Garland
- National Autistic Society North East Autism Resource Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jonathan Green
- Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Paul Gringras
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Glenys Jones
- School of Education, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - James Law
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ann S Le Couteur
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Geraldine Macdonald
- School of Sociology, Social Policy and Social Work, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Elaine M McColl
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Christopher Morris
- PenCRU, Child Health Group, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Jacqueline Rodgers
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Emily Simonoff
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Caroline B Terwee
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Katrina Williams
- University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital and Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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28
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Gammer I, Bedford R, Elsabbagh M, Garwood H, Pasco G, Tucker L, Volein A, Johnson MH, Charman T. Behavioural markers for autism in infancy: scores on the Autism Observational Scale for Infants in a prospective study of at-risk siblings. Infant Behav Dev 2015; 38:107-15. [PMID: 25656952 PMCID: PMC4346204 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2014.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2014] [Revised: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Behavioural atypicalities in emergent ASD in infancy include both social and non-social behaviours. Some of these atypicalities are found in HR siblings who do not go on to have ASD, supporting the notion of an early broader autism phenotype. Understanding the interplay between different neurodevelopmental domains across the first years of life is important to understand developmental mechanisms and to develop early interventions.
We investigated early behavioural markers of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using the Autism Observational Scale for Infants (AOSI) in a prospective familial high-risk (HR) sample of infant siblings (N = 54) and low-risk (LR) controls (N = 50). The AOSI was completed at 7 and 14 month infant visits and children were seen again at age 24 and 36 months. Diagnostic outcome of ASD (HR-ASD) versus no ASD (HR-No ASD) was determined for the HR sample at the latter timepoint. The HR group scored higher than the LR group at 7 months and marginally but non-significantly higher than the LR group at 14 months, although these differences did not remain when verbal and nonverbal developmental level were covaried. The HR-ASD outcome group had higher AOSI scores than the LR group at 14 months but not 7 months, even when developmental level was taken into account. The HR-No ASD outcome group had scores intermediate between the HR-ASD and LR groups. At both timepoints a few individual items were higher in the HR-ASD and HR-No ASD outcome groups compared to the LR group and these included both social (e.g. orienting to name) and non-social (e.g. visual tracking) behaviours. AOSI scores at 14 months but not at 7 months were moderately correlated with later scores on the autism diagnostic observation schedule (ADOS) suggesting continuity of autistic-like behavioural atypicality but only from the second and not first year of life. The scores of HR siblings who did not go on to have ASD were intermediate between the HR-ASD outcome and LR groups, consistent with the notion of a broader autism phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isobel Gammer
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Box PO77, Henry Wellcome Building, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Rachael Bedford
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Department of Biostatistics, London, UK
| | | | - Holly Garwood
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
| | - Greg Pasco
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Box PO77, Henry Wellcome Building, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Leslie Tucker
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
| | - Agnes Volein
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
| | - Mark H Johnson
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
| | - Tony Charman
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Box PO77, Henry Wellcome Building, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, UK.
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Chawarska K, Shic F, Macari S, Campbell DJ, Brian J, Landa R, Hutman T, Nelson CA, Ozonoff S, Tager-Flusberg H, Young GS, Zwaigenbaum L, Cohen IL, Charman T, Messinger DS, Klin A, Johnson S, Bryson S. 18-month predictors of later outcomes in younger siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder: a baby siblings research consortium study. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2014; 53:1317-1327.e1. [PMID: 25457930 PMCID: PMC4254798 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2014.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Revised: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Younger siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at high risk (HR) for developing ASD as well as features of the broader autism phenotype. Although this complicates early diagnostic considerations in this cohort, it also provides an opportunity to examine patterns of behavior associated specifically with ASD compared to other developmental outcomes. METHOD We applied Classification and Regression Trees (CART) analysis to individual items of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) in 719 HR siblings to identify behavioral features at 18 months that were predictive of diagnostic outcomes (ASD, atypical development, and typical development) at 36 months. RESULTS Three distinct combinations of features at 18 months were predictive of ASD outcome: poor eye contact combined with lack of communicative gestures and giving; poor eye contact combined with a lack of imaginative play; and lack of giving and presence of repetitive behaviors, but with intact eye contact. These 18-month behavioral profiles predicted ASD versus non-ASD status at 36 months with 82.7% accuracy in an initial test sample and 77.3% accuracy in a validation sample. Clinical features at age 3 years among children with ASD varied as a function of their 18-month symptom profiles. Children with ASD who were misclassified at 18 months were higher functioning, and their autism symptoms increased between 18 and 36 months. CONCLUSION These findings suggest the presence of different developmental pathways to ASD in HR siblings. Understanding such pathways will provide clearer targets for neural and genetic research and identification of developmentally specific treatments for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Rebecca Landa
- Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore
| | | | | | - Sally Ozonoff
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute at the University of California, Davis
| | | | - Gregory S Young
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute at the University of California, Davis
| | | | - Ira L Cohen
- New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Albany, NY
| | | | | | - Ami Klin
- Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, and Emory University, Atlanta
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Elison JT, Wolff JJ, Reznick JS, Botteron KN, Estes AM, Gu H, Hazlett HC, Meadows AJ, Paterson SJ, Zwaigenbaum L, Piven J. Repetitive behavior in 12-month-olds later classified with autism spectrum disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2014; 53:1216-24. [PMID: 25440311 PMCID: PMC4254502 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2014.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE As compared to the utility of early emerging social communicative risk markers for predicting a later diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), less is known about the relevance of early patterns of restricted and repetitive behaviors. We examined patterns of stereotyped motor mannerisms and repetitive manipulation of objects in 12-month-olds at high and low risk for developing ASD, all of whom were assessed for ASD at 24 months. METHOD Observational coding of repetitive object manipulation and stereotyped motor behaviors in digital recordings of the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales was conducted using the Repetitive and Stereotyped Movement Scales for 3 groups of 12-month-olds: low-risk infants (LR, n = 53); high-familial-risk infants who did not meet diagnostic criteria for ASD at 24 months (HR-negative, n = 75); and high-familial-risk infants who met diagnostic criteria for ASD at 24 months (HR-ASD, n = 30). RESULTS The HR-ASD group showed significantly more stereotyped motor mannerisms than both the HR-negative group (p = .025) and the LR group (p = .001). The HR-ASD and HR-negative groups demonstrated statistically equivalent repetitive object manipulation scores (p = .431), and both groups showed significantly more repetitive object manipulation than the LR group (p < .040). Combining the motor and object stereotypy scores into a Repetitive and Stereotyped Movement Scales (RSMS) composite yielded a disorder-continuum effect such that each group was significantly different from one another (LR < HR-negative < HR-ASD). CONCLUSION These results suggest that targeted assessment of repetitive behavior during infancy may augment early ASD identification efforts.
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Wolff JJ, Botteron KN, Dager SR, Elison JT, Estes AM, Gu H, Hazlett HC, Pandey J, Paterson SJ, Schultz RT, Zwaigenbaum L, Piven J. Longitudinal patterns of repetitive behavior in toddlers with autism. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2014; 55:945-53. [PMID: 24552513 PMCID: PMC4107191 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.12207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent evidence suggests that restricted and repetitive behaviors may differentiate children who develop autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by late infancy. How these core symptoms manifest early in life, particularly among infants at high risk for the disorder, is not well characterized. METHODS Prospective, longitudinal parent-report data (Repetitive Behavior Scales-Revised) were collected for 190 high-risk toddlers and 60 low-risk controls from 12 to 24 months of age. Forty-one high-risk children were classified with ASD at age 2. Profiles of repetitive behavior were compared between groups using generalized estimating equations. RESULTS Longitudinal profiles for children diagnosed with ASD differed significantly from high- and low-risk children without the disorder on all measures of repetitive behavior. High-risk toddlers without ASD were intermediate to low risk and ASD positive counterparts. Toddlers with ASD showed significantly higher rates of repetitive behavior across subtypes at the 12-month time point. Repetitive behaviors were significantly correlated with adaptive behavior and socialization scores among children with ASD at 24 months of age, but were largely unrelated to measures of general cognitive ability. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that as early as 12 months of age, a broad range of repetitive behaviors are highly elevated in children who go on to develop ASD. While some degree of repetitive behavior is elemental to typical early development, the extent of these behaviors among children who develop ASD appears highly atypical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason J Wolff
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Jones EJH, Gliga T, Bedford R, Charman T, Johnson MH. Developmental pathways to autism: a review of prospective studies of infants at risk. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2014; 39:1-33. [PMID: 24361967 PMCID: PMC3969297 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2013.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 339] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2013] [Revised: 11/18/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication, and the presence of restrictive and repetitive behaviors. Symptoms of ASD likely emerge from a complex interaction between pre-existing neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities and the child's environment, modified by compensatory skills and protective factors. Prospective studies of infants at high familial risk for ASD (who have an older sibling with a diagnosis) are beginning to characterize these developmental pathways to the emergence of clinical symptoms. Here, we review the range of behavioral and neurocognitive markers for later ASD that have been identified in high-risk infants in the first years of life. We discuss theoretical implications of emerging patterns, and identify key directions for future work, including potential resolutions to several methodological challenges for the field. Mapping how ASD unfolds from birth is critical to our understanding of the developmental mechanisms underlying this disorder. A more nuanced understanding of developmental pathways to ASD will help us not only to identify children who need early intervention, but also to improve the range of interventions available to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J H Jones
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck College, University of London, UK.
| | - Teodora Gliga
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck College, University of London, UK
| | - Rachael Bedford
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Biostatistics, UK
| | - Tony Charman
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Psychology, UK
| | - Mark H Johnson
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck College, University of London, UK
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What do repetitive and stereotyped movements mean for infant siblings of children with autism spectrum disorders? J Autism Dev Disord 2014; 43:1326-35. [PMID: 23080207 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-012-1681-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Repetitive and stereotyped movements (RSMs) in infancy are associated with later diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet this relationship has not been fully explored in high-risk populations. The current study investigated how RSMs involving object and body use are related to diagnostic outcomes in infant siblings of children with ASD (Sibs-ASD) and typically developing children (Sibs-TD). The rate and number of different types of RSMs were measured at an average of 15 months with follow-up diagnostic evaluations approximately 18 months later. While Sibs-ASD displayed higher rates of RSMs relative to Sibs-TD, rates did not differ according to diagnostic outcome in Sibs-ASD. However preliminary evidence suggests that qualitative differences in RSM type warrant further investigation as early diagnostic markers.
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Wu CC, Chiang CH. The developmental sequence of social-communicative skills in young children with autism: a longitudinal study. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2013; 18:385-92. [PMID: 23921662 DOI: 10.1177/1362361313479832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
To explore the different developmental trajectories of social-communicative skills in children with autism and typically developing infants, two longitudinal studies were conducted. In Study 1, we examined the developmental sequence of social-communicative skills in 26 typically developing infants when they were 9 months old and reexamined them when they were 12 and 15 months old. The results indicated a reliable developmental sequence of social-communicative skills in infants with typical development. In Study 2, we explored the emergence sequence of social-communicative skills of 23 children with autism and 23 children with developmental delay between the ages of 2 and 4 years. The results demonstrated that the developmental sequence of social-communicative skills in young children with autism and children with developmental delays was different.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Chin Wu
- 1Department of Psychology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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35
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Autism in toddlers: can observation in preschool yield the same information as autism assessment in a specialised clinic? ScientificWorldJournal 2013; 2013:384745. [PMID: 23476129 PMCID: PMC3582094 DOI: 10.1155/2013/384745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We wanted to know whether preschool observation of children suspected of suffering from autism can provide the same information about core autism symptoms as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) performed in a clinic. Forty 2–4-year-old children (9 girls, 31 boys), referred for assessment of suspected autism spectrum disorder participated in the study. The symptom areas covered by the ADOS algorithm were scored by an education specialist after free-field observation of each child in the preschool without using the prescribed ADOS materials. The ADOS was then completed in a clinic setting by examiners blind to the preschool results. Excellent agreement across results obtained at the two different types/settings of observations was found. The only significant difference found was with regard to spontaneous initiation of joint attention. The present study does not address the issue of whether or not one of the methods used is superior to the other when it comes to determining the “true” level of “autism problems” in these children. However, it is of interest that free-field preschool observation of children with suspected autism using a structured checklist yields very similar information as that obtained at ADOS assessment performed in a clinic setting.
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Mulligan S, White BP. Sensory and Motor Behaviors of Infant Siblings of Children With and Without Autism. Am J Occup Ther 2012; 66:556-66. [DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2012.004077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
We compared the sensory and motor behaviors of typically developing infants with those of infant siblings of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), who are considered high risk for the disorder, to explore potential sensory and motor markers for use in early diagnosis of ASD. We compared frequencies of sensory and motor behaviors during 10-min, videotaped, infant–mother play sessions and during 5 min of spoon-feeding between groups of 12-mo-old infants. Data from standardized measures of development, sensory processing, and behaviors commonly associated with ASD were also analyzed descriptively for the high-risk group. The results indicated that high-risk infants demonstrated fewer movement transitions (t [23] = −2.4, p = .03) and less object manipulation (t [23] = −2.4, p = .03) than low-risk infants. The sensory and motor differences found between typical and high-risk infants suggest that early screenings for ASD should include the examination of sensory and motor behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelley Mulligan
- Shelley Mulligan, PhD, OTR/L, is Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Occupational Therapy, Hewitt Hall, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824;
| | - Barbara Prudhomme White
- Barbara Prudhomme White, PhD, OTR/L, is Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, University of New Hampshire, Durham
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37
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Selective visual attention at twelve months: signs of autism in early social interactions. J Autism Dev Disord 2012; 42:487-98. [PMID: 21519953 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-011-1262-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
We examined social attention and attention shifting during (a) a play interaction between 12-month olds and an examiner and (b) after the examiner pretended to hurt herself. We coded the target and duration of infants' visual fixations and frequency of attention shifts. Siblings of children with autism and controls with no family history of autism were tested at 12 months and screened for ASD at 36 months. Groups did not differ on proportion of attention to social stimuli or attention shifting during the play condition. All groups demonstrated more social attention and attention shifting during the distress condition. Infants later diagnosed with ASD tended to continue looking at a toy during the distress condition despite the salience of social information.
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Hutman T, Rozga A, DeLaurentis A, Sigman M, Dapretto M. Infants' pre-empathic behaviors are associated with language skills. Infant Behav Dev 2012; 35:561-9. [PMID: 22728336 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2012.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2010] [Revised: 12/14/2011] [Accepted: 05/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Infants' responses to other people's distress reflect efforts to make sense of affective information about another person and apply it to oneself. This study sought to determine whether 12-month olds' responses to another person's display of negative affect reflect characteristics that support social learning and predict social functioning and language skills at 36 months. Measures of infants' responsiveness include congruent changes in affect and looking time to the person in distress. Attention to the examiner displaying positive affect, analyzed as a control condition, was not related to social functioning or language skills at 36 months. Neither attention nor affective response to the examiner's distress at 12 months was related to social functioning at 36 months. However, longer time spent looking at the examiner feigning distress predicted higher language scores. Moreover, infants who demonstrated a congruent affective response to distress had higher receptive language scores at 36 months than children who did not respond affectively. Importantly, these relations were not mediated by maternal education, household income, or 12-month verbal skills. These findings are consistent with the notion that adaptation to changes in a social partner's affective state supports an infants' ability to glean useful information from interactions with more experienced social partners. Infants' sensitivity to affective signals may thus be related to the ability to interpret other people's behavior and to achieve interpersonal understanding through language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ted Hutman
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience & Human Behavior, UCLA, United States.
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39
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Wan MW, Green J, Elsabbagh M, Johnson M, Charman T, Plummer F. Parent-infant interaction in infant siblings at risk of autism. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2012; 33:924-32. [PMID: 22257674 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2011.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2011] [Revised: 12/15/2011] [Accepted: 12/15/2011] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Recent models of the early emergence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) propose an interaction between risk susceptibility and the infant's social environment, resulting in a progressively atypical developmental trajectory. The infant's early social environmental experience consists mostly of interaction with caregivers, yet there has been little systematic study of early parent-infant interaction in infants at risk of ASD. This study examined the global characteristics of parent-infant interaction in 6- to 10-month-old infants with an older sibling diagnosed with ASD (at-risk sibs), in comparison with a group of infants with no family history of ASD (low-risk sibs). As part of the British Autism Study of Infant Siblings (BASIS), 6-min videotaped unstructured play interactions of mother-infant dyads (45 at-risk sibs and 47 low-risk sibs) were rated on global aspects of parent-infant interaction, blind to participant information. Differences in global characteristics of interaction were observed in both infant and parent contributions in the at-risk group compared to low-risk controls. In analyses adjusted for age and developmental level, at-risk sib infants were less lively, and their parents showed higher directiveness, and lower sensitive responding (as a trend after adjustment). Level of infant liveliness was independent of other interactive behaviour. Consistent with reports in previous literature in older children with autism and in other neurodevelopmental disorders, our findings may suggest that infants at genetic risk are exposed to a more directive interactive style relatively early in infancy. We discuss possible explanations for these findings and implications for further developmental study and intervention.
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Los síntomas de los trastornos del espectro de autismo en los primeros dos años de vida: una revisión a partir de los estudios longitudinales prospectivos. An Pediatr (Barc) 2012; 76:41.e1-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2011.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2011] [Revised: 04/26/2011] [Accepted: 07/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Autistic traits below the clinical threshold: re-examining the broader autism phenotype in the 21st century. Neuropsychol Rev 2011; 21:360-89. [PMID: 21989834 DOI: 10.1007/s11065-011-9183-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2011] [Accepted: 09/26/2011] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Diagnosis, intervention and support for people with autism can be assisted by research into the aetiology of the condition. Twin and family studies indicate that autism spectrum conditions are highly heritable; genetic relatives of people with autism often show milder expression of traits characteristic for autism, referred to as the Broader Autism Phenotype (BAP). In the past decade, advances in the biological and behavioural sciences have facilitated a more thorough examination of the BAP from multiple levels of analysis. Here, the candidate phenotypic traits delineating the BAP are summarised, including key findings from neuroimaging studies examining the neural substrates of the BAP. We conclude by reviewing the value of further research into the BAP, with an emphasis on deriving heritable endophenotypes which will reliably index autism susceptibility and offer neurodevelopmental mechanisms that bridge the gap between genes and a clinical autism diagnosis.
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Gerdts J, Bernier R. The broader autism phenotype and its implications on the etiology and treatment of autism spectrum disorders. AUTISM RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2011; 2011:545901. [PMID: 22937250 PMCID: PMC3420416 DOI: 10.1155/2011/545901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2010] [Revised: 03/13/2011] [Accepted: 05/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The presence of autism-related traits has been well documented in undiagnosed family members of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The most common finding is mild impairments in social and communication skills that are similar to those shown by individuals with autism, but exhibited to a lesser degree. Termed the broader autism phenotype (BAP), these traits suggest a genetic liability for autism-related traits in families. Genetic influence in autism is strong, with identical twins showing high concordance for the diagnosis and related traits and approximately 20% of all ASD cases having an identified genetic mechanism. This paper highlights the studies conducted to date regarding the BAP and considers the implications of these findings for the etiology and treatment of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Gerdts
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Raphael Bernier
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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