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Shelley L, Waite J, Tarver J, Oliver C, Crawford H, Richards C, Bissell S. Behaviours that Challenge in SATB2-associated Syndrome: Correlates of Self-injury, Aggression and Property Destruction. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:4179-4194. [PMID: 37751087 PMCID: PMC11461772 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06123-2] [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] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
SATB2-associated syndrome (SAS) is a genetic syndrome characterised by intellectual disability, severe speech delay, and palatal and dental problems. Behaviours that challenge (BtC) are reported frequently; however, there is limited research on specific forms of BtC and the correlates of these behaviours. The current study explores correlates of well-defined BtC, self-injury, aggression, and property destruction, in SAS. Eighty-one parents/caregivers of individuals with SAS (53.1% male, Mage 10.12 years) completed questionnaire measures of health, behavioural, emotional, and autism characteristics. Individuals with SAS were grouped based on caregiver responses to the presence or absence of self-injury, aggression, and property destruction on the Challenging Behaviour Questionnaire. Rates of self-injury, aggression and property destruction were 42%, 77% and 49%, respectively. Between-group comparisons were conducted to compare characteristics between behaviour groups. Significantly differing characteristics were entered into separate hierarchical logistic regressions for each form of BtC. Behavioural comparisons indicated variation in the characteristics associated with each behaviour. All hierarchical logistic regression models were significant (p < .001): self-injury (χ2(5) = 38.46, R2 = 0.571), aggression (χ2(4) = 25.12, R2 = 0.414), property destruction (χ2(4) = 23.70, R2 = 0.346), explaining between 34.6% and 57.1% of the variance in behaviour presence. This is the first study to identify correlates of self-injury, aggression, and property destruction in SAS. Variability in the characteristics associated with each behaviour highlights the importance of specificity when examining BtC. Understanding correlates of specific forms of BtC has important implications for informing SAS-associated pathways to behavioural outcomes and the implementation of tailored behavioural interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Shelley
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK.
- Cerebra Network for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Jane Waite
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
- Cerebra Network for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Joanne Tarver
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Chris Oliver
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Hayley Crawford
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Cerebra Network for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Caroline Richards
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
- Cerebra Network for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Stacey Bissell
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
- Cerebra Network for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Yekezare M, Handley P, Clough S. Diagnostic overshadowing: self-injurious behaviour as a manifestation of pain in the head and neck. Br Dent J 2024; 236:876-880. [PMID: 38877248 DOI: 10.1038/s41415-024-7449-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
In the healthcare domain, diagnostic overshadowing is a concerning issue involving the erroneous attribution of physical symptoms to a patient's mental health, behavioural intricacies, or pre-existing disabilities. Individuals facing learning and communication challenges are particularly susceptible to this phenomenon, struggling to articulate or comprehend their experienced symptoms. Likewise, patients with autism spectrum disorder can have an escalated risk due to possible challenges in interpreting bodily cues. This article delves into the specialised care required for individuals with learning disabilities and/or autism, highlighting the pervasive risk of diagnostic overshadowing and the potential manifestation of pain as self-injurious behaviour in these patient groups. By underscoring the need to mitigate diagnostic overshadowing within dental practice, we advocate for reasonable adjustments in care delivery and comprehensive education of the dental team. Proficient tools for pain assessment and effective communication are emphasised to collectively improve the healthcare experience for these vulnerable patient cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Yekezare
- Clinical Fellow in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Barts Health, The Royal London Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Patricia Handley
- Lead Nurse for Learning Disability, Barts Health, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Stacey Clough
- Consultant in Special Care Dentistry, The Royal London Dental Hospital, London, UK
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Adelson RP, Ciobanu M, Garikipati A, Castell NJ, Barnes G, Tawara K, Singh NP, Rumph J, Mao Q, Vaish A, Das R. Family-Centric Applied Behavior Analysis Promotes Sustained Treatment Utilization and Attainment of Patient Goals. Cureus 2024; 16:e62377. [PMID: 39011193 PMCID: PMC11247253 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.62377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social communication difficulties and restricted repetitive behaviors or interests. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) has been shown to significantly improve outcomes for individuals on the autism spectrum. However, challenges regarding access, cost, and provider shortages remain obstacles to treatment delivery. To this end, parents were trained as parent behavior technicians (pBTs), improving access to ABA, and empowering parents to provide ABA treatment in their own homes. We hypothesized that patients diagnosed with severe ASD would achieve the largest gains in overall success rates toward skill acquisition in comparison to patients diagnosed with mild or moderate ASD. Our secondary hypothesis was that patients with comprehensive treatment plans (>25-40 hours/week) would show greater gains in skill acquisition than those with focused treatment plans (less than or equal to 25 hours/week). Methods: This longitudinal, retrospective chart review evaluated data from 243 patients aged two to 18 years who received at least three months of ABA within our pBT treatment delivery model. Patients were stratified by utilization of prescribed ABA treatment, age, ASD severity (per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition), and treatment plan type (comprehensive vs. focused). Patient outcomes were assessed by examining success rates in acquiring skills, both overall and in specific focus areas (communication, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills). RESULTS Patients receiving treatment within the pBT model demonstrated significant progress in skill acquisition both overall and within specific focus areas, regardless of cohort stratification. Patients with severe ASD showed greater overall skill acquisition gains than those with mild or moderate ASD. In addition, patients with comprehensive treatment plans showed significantly greater gains than those with focused treatment plans. CONCLUSION The pBT model achieved both sustained levels of high treatment utilization and progress toward patient goals. Patients showed significant gains in success rates of skill acquisition both overall and in specific focus areas, regardless of their level of treatment utilization. This study reveals that our pBT model of ABA treatment delivery leads to consistent improvements in communication, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills across patients on the autism spectrum, particularly for those with more severe symptoms and those following comprehensive treatment plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P Adelson
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Madalina Ciobanu
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Anurag Garikipati
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Natalie J Castell
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Gina Barnes
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Ken Tawara
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Navan P Singh
- Engineering, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Jodi Rumph
- Clinical Team, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Qingqing Mao
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Anshu Vaish
- Clinical Team, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Ritankar Das
- Executive Leadership, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
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Adelson RP, Ciobanu M, Garikipati A, Castell NJ, Singh NP, Barnes G, Rumph JK, Mao Q, Roane HS, Vaish A, Das R. Family-Centric Applied Behavior Analysis Facilitates Improved Treatment Utilization and Outcomes. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2409. [PMID: 38673682 PMCID: PMC11051390 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13082409] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objective: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by lifelong impacts on functional social and daily living skills, and restricted, repetitive behaviors (RRBs). Applied behavior analysis (ABA), the gold-standard treatment for ASD, has been extensively validated. ABA access is hindered by limited availability of qualified professionals and logistical and financial barriers. Scientifically validated, parent-led ABA can fill the accessibility gap by overcoming treatment barriers. This retrospective cohort study examines how our ABA treatment model, utilizing parent behavior technicians (pBTs) to deliver ABA, impacts adaptive behaviors and interfering behaviors (IBs) in a cohort of children on the autism spectrum with varying ASD severity levels, and with or without clinically significant IBs. Methods: Clinical outcomes of 36 patients ages 3-15 years were assessed using longitudinal changes in Vineland-3 after 3+ months of pBT-delivered ABA treatment. Results: Within the pBT model, our patients demonstrated clinically significant improvements in Vineland-3 Composite, domain, and subdomain scores, and utilization was higher in severe ASD. pBTs utilized more prescribed ABA when children initiated treatment with clinically significant IBs, and these children also showed greater gains in their Composite scores. Study limitations include sample size, inter-rater reliability, potential assessment metric bias and schedule variability, and confounding intrinsic or extrinsic factors. Conclusion: Overall, our pBT model facilitated high treatment utilization and showed robust effectiveness, achieving improved adaptive behaviors and reduced IBs when compared to conventional ABA delivery. The pBT model is a strong contender to fill the widening treatment accessibility gap and represents a powerful tool for addressing systemic problems in ABA treatment delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P. Adelson
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Madalina Ciobanu
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Anurag Garikipati
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Natalie J. Castell
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Navan Preet Singh
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Gina Barnes
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Jodi Kim Rumph
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Qingqing Mao
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Henry S. Roane
- Madison-Irving Medical Center, Upstate Medical University, 475 Irving Avenue, Syracuse, NY 13210-1756, USA;
| | - Anshu Vaish
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
| | - Ritankar Das
- Montera, Inc., dba Forta, Research and Development, 548 Market St., PMB 89605, San Francisco, CA 94104-5401, USA; (R.P.A.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (N.J.C.); (N.P.S.); (G.B.); (A.V.); (R.D.)
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Newell V, Townsend E, Richards C, Cassidy S. Measurement properties of tools used to assess self-harm in autistic and general population adults. Clin Psychol Rev 2024; 109:102412. [PMID: 38503029 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2024.102412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Autistic people are at increased risk of experiencing self-harm compared to the general population. However, it is unclear which tools are being used to assess self-harm in autistic people, or whether existing tools need to be adapted for this group. This two-stage systematic review aimed to identify tools used to assess self-harm in autistic and general population adults, evaluate these tools on their measurement properties, and make recommendations for their appropriate use in research and clinical practice. Four databases were systematically searched (PsycINFO, Embase, MEDLINE and Web of Science). Eight frequently used self-harm assessment tools were identified and assessed for risk of bias, criteria for good measurement properties, and quality of evidence using the COSMIN checklist. Of these, two tools had sufficient evidence of internal consistency (ISAS, QNSSI), and one had been frequently used with autistic adults (NSSI-AT). These three tools may have potential for use with autistic adults but require further investigation for content validity and measurement properties in the autistic population. More research and potential adaptations to current self-harm assessment tools are recommended in order to better conceptualise and understand self-harm and its measurement in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Newell
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom.
| | - Ellen Townsend
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline Richards
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, 52 Pritchatts Road, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Cassidy
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
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Moore TR, Lee S, Freeman R, Mahmoundi M, Dimian A, Riegelman A, Simacek JJ. A Meta-Analysis of Treatment for Self-Injurious Behavior in Children and Adolescents With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Behav Modif 2024; 48:216-256. [PMID: 38197303 DOI: 10.1177/01454455231218742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Self-injurious behavior (SIB) among children and youth with developmental disabilities has not diminished in prevalence despite the availability of effective interventions, and the impact on quality of life for people and their families is devastating. The current meta-analysis reviews SIB intervention research between 2011 and 2021 using single-case experimental designs with children and youth up to 21 years old and provides a quantitative synthesis of data from high-quality studies including moderator analyses to determine effects of participant and study characteristics on intervention outcomes. Encouraging findings include a high level of effectiveness across studies in the decrease of SIB (Tau-U = -0.90) and increase of positive behavior (Tau-U = 0.73), as well as an increase in studies (relative to prior reviews) reporting intervention fidelity, generalization, maintenance, and social validity. However, our findings shed limited light on potential moderating variables in the development of interventions for children and youth who exhibit SIB. Of the potential moderators of intervention effects, only implementer (researcher/therapist vs. parent/caregiver) and setting (clinic vs. home) were significantly associated with improved outcomes. We discuss the need for more robust involvement of natural communities of implementers in SIB intervention research to better equip them to effectively and sustainably meet the needs of people they care for. We also discuss the importance of creating systems enabling broad access for children with SIB to effective interventions in service of reducing burden for people, families, and society over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Moore
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Seunghee Lee
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Rachel Freeman
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Maryam Mahmoundi
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Adele Dimian
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Amy Riegelman
- Social Sciences Libraries, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Jessica J Simacek
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
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Bemmouna D, Lagzouli A, Weiner L. The biosocial correlates and predictors of emotion dysregulation in autistic adults compared to borderline personality disorder and nonclinical controls. Mol Autism 2023; 14:47. [PMID: 38110995 PMCID: PMC10726572 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-023-00580-3] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emotion dysregulation (ED) is a core symptom of borderline personality disorder (BPD), whose aetiology has been attributed to biosocial factors. In autism spectrum condition (ASC), although ED is prevalent and is associated with decreased well-being (e.g. self-harm, suicidality), it has been understudied, especially in adults. It is therefore crucial to further understand ED in autistic adults to improve its treatment. Our study investigates ED, its behavioural correlates (e.g. self-harm, suicidality) and biosocial predictors in autistic adults relative to BPD and nonclinical controls (NC). METHODS A total of 724 participants (ASC = 154; BPD = 111; NC = 459) completed 11 self-reported questionnaires assessing ED, ASC and BPD traits, co-occurring disorders, alexithymia, emotional vulnerability and invalidating experiences (e.g. bullying, autistic camouflaging). The occurrence of ED behavioural correlates (i.e. self-harm, history of suicide attempts, and psychiatric hospitalizations) was collected. In addition, between-groups analyses, linear regressions and machine learning (ML) models were used to identify ED predictors in each group. RESULTS ED and its behavioural correlates were higher in ASC compared to NC, but milder than in BPD. While gender did not predict ED scores, autistic women had increased risk factors to ED, including sexual abuse and camouflaging. Interestingly, BPD traits, emotional vulnerability and alexithymia strongly predicted ED scores across the groups. Using ML models, sensory sensitivity and autistic camouflaging were associated with ED in ASC, and ADHD symptoms with ED in BPD. LIMITATIONS ASC and BPD diagnoses were self-reported, which did not allow us to check their accuracy. Additionally, we did not explore the transactional and the moderating/mediating relationships between the different variables. Moreover, our research is cross-sectional and cannot draw conclusions regarding the direction and causality of relationships between ED and other clinical dimensions. CONCLUSIONS ED and its behavioural correlates are heightened in BPD compared to ASC and nonclinical controls. In the ASC group, there were no gender differences in ED, despite the heightened exposure of autistic women to ED risk factors. BPD traits, emotional vulnerability, and alexithymia are core to ED regardless of diagnosis. Although less central, sensory sensitivity and autistic camouflaging seem to be specific predictors of ED in autistic adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doha Bemmouna
- Department of Psychology, University of Strasbourg, 12 Rue Goethe, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Amine Lagzouli
- MSME, CNRS UMR 8208, Paris-Est Créteil University, Gustave Eiffel University, 94010, Créteil, France
- School of Chemistry, Physics and Mechanical Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia
| | - Luisa Weiner
- Department of Psychology, University of Strasbourg, 12 Rue Goethe, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
- Psychiatry Department, University Hospitals of Strasbourg, 1 Place de l'Hôpital, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
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Frazier TW, Khaliq I, Scullin K, Uljarevic M, Shih A, Karpur A. Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Open-Source Challenging Behavior Scale (OS-CBS). J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:4655-4670. [PMID: 36112303 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05750-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
At present, there are no brief, freely-available, informant-report measures that evaluate key challenging behaviors relevant to youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other developmental disabilities (DD). This paper describes the development, refinement, and initial psychometric evaluation of a new 18-item measure, the Open-Source Challenging Behavior Scale (OS-CBS). In a large sample (n = 2004, 169 with ASD, ages 2-17), results of psychometric analyses indicated a clear factor structure (property destruction, aggression, elopement, conduct problems, and self-injury and a general factor with high loadings from all items) based on exploratory structural equation modeling, good scale reliability (α = .66-.83 for subscales, α = .91 total scale), measurement invariance across demographics, and good construct validity. The OS-CBS is a psychometrically-sound instrument for screening and monitoring intervention progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Frazier
- Department of Psychology, John Carroll University, 1 John Carroll Boulevard, University Heights, OH, 44118, USA.
| | - Izma Khaliq
- Department of Psychology, John Carroll University, 1 John Carroll Boulevard, University Heights, OH, 44118, USA
| | - Keeley Scullin
- Department of Psychology, John Carroll University, 1 John Carroll Boulevard, University Heights, OH, 44118, USA
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Ferina J, Kruger M, Kruger U, Ryan D, Anderson C, Foster J, Hamlin T, Hahn J. Predicting Problematic Behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Medical History and Environmental Data. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1513. [PMID: 37888124 PMCID: PMC10608042 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13101513] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), characterized by social, communication, and behavioral abnormalities, affects 1 in 36 children according to the CDC. Several co-occurring conditions are often associated with ASD, including sleep and immune disorders and gastrointestinal (GI) problems. ASD is also associated with sensory sensitivities. Some individuals with ASD exhibit episodes of challenging behaviors that can endanger themselves or others, including aggression and self-injurious behavior (SIB). In this work, we explored the use of artificial intelligence models to predict behavior episodes based on past data of co-occurring conditions and environmental factors for 80 individuals in a residential setting. We found that our models predict occurrences of behavior and non-behavior with accuracies as high as 90% for some individuals, and that environmental, as well as gastrointestinal, factors are notable predictors across the population examined. While more work is needed to examine the underlying connections between the factors and the behaviors, having reasonably accurate predictions for behaviors has the potential to improve the quality of life of some individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Ferina
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA; (J.F.); (U.K.)
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA;
| | - Melanie Kruger
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA;
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Uwe Kruger
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA; (J.F.); (U.K.)
| | - Daniel Ryan
- The Center for Discovery, Harris, NY 12742, USA; (D.R.); (C.A.); (J.F.); (T.H.)
| | - Conor Anderson
- The Center for Discovery, Harris, NY 12742, USA; (D.R.); (C.A.); (J.F.); (T.H.)
| | - Jenny Foster
- The Center for Discovery, Harris, NY 12742, USA; (D.R.); (C.A.); (J.F.); (T.H.)
| | - Theresa Hamlin
- The Center for Discovery, Harris, NY 12742, USA; (D.R.); (C.A.); (J.F.); (T.H.)
| | - Juergen Hahn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA; (J.F.); (U.K.)
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA;
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
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Bemmouna D, Weiner L. Linehan's biosocial model applied to emotion dysregulation in autism: a narrative review of the literature and an illustrative case conceptualization. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1238116. [PMID: 37840783 PMCID: PMC10570453 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1238116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Emotion dysregulation (ED) is a transdiagnostic difficulty prevalent in autism spectrum condition (ASC). Importantly, recent research has suggested that ED is involved in self-harm and suicidality. Pre-existing models on the etiology of ED in ASC focus mainly on biological factors to ASC features, such as sensory sensitivities, poor flexibility, and sensitivity to change. However, although psychosocial factors seem to play a role in the emergence of ED in ASC as well (e.g., childhood maltreatment and camouflaging), there is a lack of a comprehensive model conceptualizing biosocial factors involved in ED in autistic people. Linehan's biosocial model (1993) is one of the leading etiological models of ED in borderline personality disorder (BPD). It conceptualizes ED as emerging from transactions between a pre-existing emotional vulnerability in the child and an invalidating developmental environment. Beyond its clinical relevance, Linehan's model has gathered empirical evidence supporting its pertinence in BPD and in other psychiatric disorders. Although ASC and BPD are two distinct diagnoses, because they may share ED, Linehan's biosocial model might be useful for understanding the development of ED in ASC. Hence, this article aims to provide an application and extension of Linehan's model to conceptualize ED in ASC. To do so, we conducted a narrative review of the literature on ED and its underlying factors in ASC from a developmental perspective. To investigate the pertinence of the biosocial model applied to ED in autistic people, we were interested on data on (i) ED and its behavioral correlates in ASC, in relation to the biosocial model, (ii) the potential biological and psychosocial correlates of ED in ASC and (iii) the overlapping difficulties in ASC and BPD. Finally, to assess the pertinence of the model, we applied it to the case of an autistic woman presenting with ED and suicidal behaviors. Our review and application to the case of an autistic woman suggest that ED in ASC encompasses factors related to both biological and psychosocial risk factors as conceptualized in the BPD framework, although in both domains ASC-specific factors might be involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doha Bemmouna
- Faculté de Psychologie, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Luisa Weiner
- Faculté de Psychologie, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Département de Psychiatrie Adulte, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, Alsace, France
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11
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Valdovinos MG, Epperson C, Johnson C. A review of the use of psychotropic medication to address challenging behaviour in neurodevelopmental disorders. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 173:43-65. [PMID: 37993179 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Engagement in challenging behaviour (e.g., aggression, self-injury) is reported to occur in neurodevelopmental disorders such as intellectual disabilities (ID), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and fragile X syndrome (FXS). Common interventions to address these behaviours include both behavioural and pharmacological approaches. Although psychotropic medications are commonly used to address challenging behaviour in ID, ASD, and FXS, demonstration of the effectiveness of treatment is limited. Furthermore, research examining interaction effects between psychotropic medication, challenging behaviour, and environmental events within specific neurodevelopmental disorders such as ID, ASD, and FXS is scarce. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of challenging behaviour within ID, ASD, and FXS and of the effectiveness of psychotropic medication as an intervention for challenging behaviour within these neurodevelopmental disorders. Finally, research examining how psychotropic medication may impact the relationship between challenging behaviour and environmental events is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria G Valdovinos
- Drake University, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Des Moines, IA, United States.
| | - Claire Epperson
- Drake University, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Des Moines, IA, United States
| | - Carissa Johnson
- Drake University, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Des Moines, IA, United States
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12
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Clarke KA, Siegel M, Williams DL. The Relationship Between Augmentative and Alternative Communication Use by Pediatric Psychiatric Inpatients With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Interfering Behaviors. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2023; 32:2040-2056. [PMID: 37433305 DOI: 10.1044/2023_ajslp-23-00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous research conducted by Williams et al. (2018) using data from the Autism Inpatient Collection (AIC) found a weak and inconsistent association between verbal ability and the severity of interfering behaviors; however, adapting/coping scores were significantly associated with self-injury, stereotypy, and irritability (including aggression and tantrums). The previous study did not account for access to or use of alternative forms of communication in their sample population. This study uses retrospective data to investigate the association between verbal ability and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) use and the presence of interfering behaviors in individuals with autism who have complex behavioral profiles. METHOD The sample included 260 autistic inpatients, ages 4-20 years, from six psychiatric facilities, enrolled during the second phase of the AIC when detailed information about AAC use was collected. Measures included AAC use, method, and function; comprehension and production of language; receptive vocabulary; nonverbal IQ; severity of interfering behaviors; and the presence and severity of repetitive behaviors. RESULTS Lower language/communication abilities were related to increased repetitive behaviors and stereotypies. More specifically, these interfering behaviors appeared to be related to communication in those individuals who were candidates for AAC but who were not reported to have access to it. Although the use of AAC did not predict a decrease in interfering behaviors, receptive vocabulary scores-as measured by the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Fourth Edition-were positively correlated with the presence of interfering behaviors in participants with the most complex communication needs. CONCLUSIONS The communication needs of some individuals with autism may be unmet, prompting the use of interfering behaviors as a form of communication. Further investigation of the functions of interfering behaviors and the related functions of communication skills may provide greater support for an increased focus on the provision of AAC to prevent and ameliorate interfering behaviors in individuals with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn A Clarke
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park
| | - Matthew Siegel
- Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Spring Harbor Hospital, Tufts University School of Medicine, Westbrook
| | - Diane L Williams
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park
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13
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Soylu F, May K, Kana R. White and gray matter correlates of theory of mind in autism: a voxel-based morphometry study. Brain Struct Funct 2023; 228:1671-1689. [PMID: 37452864 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-023-02680-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by difficulties in theory of mind (ToM) and social communication. Studying structural and functional correlates of ToM in the brain and how autistic and nonautistic groups differ in terms of these correlates can help with diagnosis and understanding the biological mechanisms of ASD. In this study, we investigated white matter volume (WMV) and gray matter volume (GMV) differences between matching autistic and nonautistic samples, and how these structural features relate to age and ToM skills, indexed by the Reading the Mind in the Eyes (RMIE) measure. The results showed widespread GMV and WMV differences between the two groups in regions crucial for social processes. The autistic group did not express the typically observed negative GMV and positive WMV correlations with age at the same level as the nonautistic group, pointing to abnormalities in developmental structural changes. In addition, we found differences between the two groups in how GMV relates to ToM, particularly in the left frontal regions, and how WMV relates to ToM, mostly in the cingulate and corpus callosum. Finally, GMV in the left insula, a region that is part of the salience network, was found to be crucial in distinguishing ToM performance between the two groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firat Soylu
- Educational Psychology Program, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, USA.
| | - Kaitlyn May
- Educational Psychology Program, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, USA
| | - Rajesh Kana
- Department of Psychology, & the Center for Innovative Research in Autism, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, USA
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14
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Dimian AF, Estes AM, Dager S, Piven J, Wolff JJ. Predicting self-injurious behavior at age three among infant siblings of children with autism. Autism Res 2023; 16:1670-1680. [PMID: 37439184 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2981] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Existing research suggests that self-injurious behavior (SIB) is a relatively common interfering behavior that can occur across the lifespan of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We previously reported that SIB or proto-injurious SIB at 12 months was related to increased risk of SIB at 24 months among a preschool sample of children with a high familial likelihood for ASD (Dimian et al., 2017). In the present study, we extend these findings, examine SIB occurrence, and associated potential risk factors at 36 months. The present sample included 149 infants with an older sibling with ASD (65.8% male) who completed assessments at ages 12, 24, and 36 months. Descriptive analyses and binary logistic regression models were utilized. SIB was more prevalent among those children who received a diagnosis of ASD. Logistic regression indicated that presence of SIB, stereotypy, hyper- and hypo- sensory responsivity, and lower intellectual functioning at age 12 months significantly predicted the occurrence of SIB at 36 months. These findings have implications for understanding developmental processes culminating in persistent SIB and may inform prevention programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele F Dimian
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Annette M Estes
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Stephen Dager
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Joseph Piven
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jason J Wolff
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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15
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Adams D, Dargue N, Paynter J. Longitudinal studies of challenging behaviours in autistic children and adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Psychol Rev 2023; 104:102320. [PMID: 37515997 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2023.102320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Autistic children and adults are at increased risk of showing behaviours that may be described as challenging, however, little is known about whether or how these behaviours may change over time. Given the profound impact that challenging behaviour can have on both the autistic individual and their support network, it is critical that the trajectory of challenging behaviours be better understood. This systematic review and meta-analysis identified and synthesised observational longitudinal studies of challenging behaviour in autistic individuals. Fifty-six studies were included in the systematic review, and the effect sizes of 37 independent samples arising from 34 of these reports were examined through meta-analysis. Crucially, across the 37 samples, scores on the measures of challenging behaviour reduced by a small, yet significant, extent over time. Although age of the sample at baseline assessment did not moderate the effect, the time between the baseline assessment and final follow-up and age at final follow-up both moderated the magnitude of the effect, with challenging behaviour scores reducing to a larger extent in (a) studies with longer intervals between baseline and final follow-up and (b) studies with older samples at follow-up. The results from the current systematic review and meta-analysis have both theoretical and practical implications for understanding challenging behaviour over time in autistic individuals. Avenues for future research are also highlighted that may allow better understanding, and therefore support of, challenging behaviour in autistic individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn Adams
- Autism Centre of Excellence, Griffith University, Messines Ridge Road, Mt Gravatt, Brisbane, QLD 4122, Australia; Griffith Institute for Educational Research, Griffith University, Messines Ridge Road, Mt Gravatt, Brisbane, QLD 4122, Australia.
| | - Nicole Dargue
- Autism Centre of Excellence, Griffith University, Messines Ridge Road, Mt Gravatt, Brisbane, QLD 4122, Australia; Griffith Institute for Educational Research, Griffith University, Messines Ridge Road, Mt Gravatt, Brisbane, QLD 4122, Australia
| | - Jessica Paynter
- Griffith Institute for Educational Research, Griffith University, Messines Ridge Road, Mt Gravatt, Brisbane, QLD 4122, Australia; School of Applied Psychology and Hopkins Centre, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
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16
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Gaitanis J, Nie D, Hou T, Frye R. Developmental Regression Followed by Epilepsy and Aggression: A New Syndrome in Autism Spectrum Disorder? J Pers Med 2023; 13:1049. [PMID: 37511662 PMCID: PMC10381960 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13071049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with regression (ASD-R) involves the loss of previously attained developmental milestones, typically during the first or second year of life. As children age, it is not uncommon for them to develop comorbid conditions such as aggressive behaviors or epilepsy, which can inhibit habilitation in language and social function. In this paper, we hypothesize that aggressive behaviors and epilepsy more commonly develop in patients with ASD-R than in those without a history of regression (ASD-NR). We conducted a retrospective review of non-syndromic patients with ASD over 12 years of age and compared the rates of epilepsy and aggression between ASD-R and ASD-NR patients. Patients with ASD-R, as compared to ASD-NR patients, demonstrated non-significantly higher rates of epilepsy (51.8% vs. 38.1%, p = 0.1335) and aggressive behaviors (73.2% vs. 57.1%, p = 0.0673) when evaluated separately. The rates for combined epilepsy and aggression, however, were statistically significant when comparing ASD-R versus ASD patients (44.5% vs. 23.8%, p = 0.0163). These results suggest that epilepsy with aggression is more common in ASD-R as compared to ASD-NR patients. When considering the impact of epilepsy and aggression on quality of life, these co-morbidities effectively cause a second regression in patients who experienced an earlier regression as toddlers. A larger, prospective trial is recommended to confirm these associations and further define the timeline in which these characteristics develop from early childhood to adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Gaitanis
- Hasbro Children's Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Duyu Nie
- Hasbro Children's Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Tao Hou
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Richard Frye
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA
- Rossignol Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA
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17
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Rossow T, MacLennan K, Tavassoli T. The Predictive Relationship Between Sensory Reactivity and Depressive Symptoms in Young Autistic Children with Few to No Words. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:2384-2394. [PMID: 35338437 PMCID: PMC8956453 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05528-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Depression and sensory reactivity are both common in autism. However, there is little understanding of the predictive relationship between these factors, or the nature of this relationship in autistic children who speak few to no words. This study set out to explore the longitudinal relationship between sensory reactivity and depressive symptoms in 33 young autistic children who speak few to no words. We found positive correlations between depressive symptoms and hyper-reactivity and sensory seeking at both timepoints, and across timepoints. We further found a bidirectional predictive relationship between depressive symptoms and sensory seeking. These results implicate sensory seeking in the development of depressive symptoms in young autistic children who use few to no words. Our findings have important implications for preventative mental health interventions, especially for those with a developmental language delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Rossow
- University of Reading, Harry Pitt Building, Earley Gate, Reading, RG6 6BZ, UK.
| | - Keren MacLennan
- University of Reading, Harry Pitt Building, Earley Gate, Reading, RG6 6BZ, UK
| | - Teresa Tavassoli
- University of Reading, Harry Pitt Building, Earley Gate, Reading, RG6 6BZ, UK
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18
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Frackowiak J, Mazur-Kolecka B. Intraneuronal accumulation of amyloid-β peptides as the pathomechanism linking autism and its co-morbidities: epilepsy and self-injurious behavior - the hypothesis. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1160967. [PMID: 37305553 PMCID: PMC10250631 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1160967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with enhanced processing of amyloid-β precursor protein (APP) by secretase-α, higher blood levels of sAPPα and intraneuronal accumulation of N-terminally truncated Aβ peptides in the brain cortex - mainly in the GABAergic neurons expressing parvalbumin - and subcortical structures. Brain Aβ accumulation has been also described in epilepsy-the frequent ASD co-morbidity. Furthermore, Aβ peptides have been shown to induce electroconvulsive episodes. Enhanced production and altered processing of APP, as well as accumulation of Aβ in the brain are also frequent consequences of traumatic brain injuries which result from self-injurious behaviors, another ASD co-morbidity. We discuss distinct consequences of accumulation of Aβ in the neurons and synapses depending on the Aβ species, their posttranslational modifications, concentration, level of aggregation and oligomerization, as well as brain structures, cell types and subcellular structures where it occurs. The biological effects of Aβ species which are discussed in the context of the pathomechanisms of ASD, epilepsy, and self-injurious behavior include modulation of transcription-both activation and repression; induction of oxidative stress; activation and alteration of membrane receptors' signaling; formation of calcium channels causing hyper-activation of neurons; reduction of GABAergic signaling - all of which lead to disruption of functions of synapses and neuronal networks. We conclude that ASD, epilepsy, and self-injurious behaviors all contribute to the enhanced production and accumulation of Aβ peptides which in turn cause and enhance dysfunctions of the neuronal networks that manifest as autism clinical symptoms, epilepsy, and self-injurious behaviors.
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19
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Dell'Osso L, Cremone IM, Nardi B, Tognini V, Castellani L, Perrone P, Amatori G, Carpita B. Comorbidity and Overlaps between Autism Spectrum and Borderline Personality Disorder: State of the Art. Brain Sci 2023; 13:862. [PMID: 37371342 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the relationship between Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and personality disorders (PD) still being scarcely understood, recent investigations increased awareness about significant overlaps between some PD and autism spectrum conditions. In this framework, several studies suggested the presence of similarities between BPD and ASD symptoms and traits, based on the recent literature that increasingly reported increased comorbidity rates and significant symptomatologic overlaps between the two conditions. The aim of this review is to describe the available studies about the prevalence of the association between different forms of autism spectrum (full-fledged clinical conditions as well as subthreshold autistic traits) and BPD. Despite some controversial results and lack of homogeneity in the methods used for the diagnostic assessment, the reviewed literature highlighted how subjects with BPD reported higher scores on tests evaluating the presence of AT compared to a non-clinical population and hypothesized the presence of unrecognized ASD in some BPD patients or vice versa, while also describing a shared vulnerability towards traumatic events, and a greater risk of suicidality in BPD subjects with high autistic traits. However, the specific measure and nature of this association remain to be explored in more depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ivan Mirko Cremone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Benedetta Nardi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Valeria Tognini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Castellani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Perrone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Amatori
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Carpita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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20
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Co-Occurring Autism Spectrum and Borderline Personality Disorder: An Emerging Clinical Challenge Seeking Informed Interventions. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2023; 31:83-91. [PMID: 36884039 PMCID: PMC9997622 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
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21
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Rodgers J, Goodwin J, Nielsen E, Bhattarai N, Heslop P, Kharatikoopaei E, O’Connor RC, Ogundimu E, Ramsay SE, Steele K, Townsend E, Vale L, Walton E, Wilson C, Cassidy S. Adapted suicide safety plans to address self-harm, suicidal ideation, and suicide behaviours in autistic adults: protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:31. [PMID: 36855212 PMCID: PMC9972793 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01264-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide prevention is a national priority for the UK government. Autistic people are at greater risk of experiencing self-harm and suicidal thoughts and behaviours than the general population. Safety plans are widely used in suicide prevention but have not yet been designed with and for autistic people. We developed the first safety plan specifically targeting suicidality in autistic adults: the Autism Adapted Safety Plan (AASP). It consists of a prioritised list of hierarchical steps that can be used prior to or during a crisis to mitigate risk of self-harm and suicidal behaviour. This is a pilot study that aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the AASPs and the research processes, including the response rates, potential barriers and reach of AASPs, methods of recruitment, what comprises usual care, and economic evaluation methods/tools. METHODS This is an external pilot randomised controlled trial of a suicide prevention tool aimed at mitigating the risk of self-harm and suicidal behaviour in autistic adults: AASPs. Participants will be assessed at baseline and followed up 1 month and 6 months later. Assessments include questions about self-harm, suicidality, service use, and their experience of the AASP/taking part in the study. Autistic adults who have a clinical autism diagnosis and self-reported history of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or suicidal behaviours within the last 6 months will be invited to take part in the study. Informed consent will be obtained. Participants will be recruited via community and third sector services (including community settings, autism charities, and mental health charities). They may also "self-refer" into the study through social media recruitment and word of mouth. Ninety participants will be randomised to either develop an AASP or receive their usual care in a 1:1 ratio. DISCUSSION The present study will provide an evaluation of the suitability of the processes that would be undertaken in a larger definitive study, including recruitment, randomisation, methods, questionnaires, outcome measures, treatment, and follow-up assessments. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN70594445, Protocol v4: 8/2/22.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqui Rodgers
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jane Goodwin
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Emma Nielsen
- grid.4563.40000 0004 1936 8868School of Psychology, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Nawaraj Bhattarai
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Health Economics Group, Population Health Science Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Phil Heslop
- grid.42629.3b0000000121965555Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ehsan Kharatikoopaei
- grid.8250.f0000 0000 8700 0572Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - Rory C. O’Connor
- grid.8756.c0000 0001 2193 314XSuicidal Behaviour Research Lab, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Emmanuel Ogundimu
- grid.8250.f0000 0000 8700 0572Department of Mathematical Sciences, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - Sheena E. Ramsay
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Katie Steele
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212School of Psychology, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ellen Townsend
- grid.4563.40000 0004 1936 8868School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Luke Vale
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Health Economics Group, Population Health Science Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Emily Walton
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212School of Psychology, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Colin Wilson
- grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sarah Cassidy
- grid.4563.40000 0004 1936 8868School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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22
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Chan CYZ, Williams K, May T, Wan WH, Brignell A. Is language ability associated with behaviors of concern in autism? A systematic review. Autism Res 2023; 16:250-270. [PMID: 36412557 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2855] [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: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This review systematically synthesized evidence on the association between structural language ability and behaviors of concern (BoC) in autism. Four databases were searched for studies that included >10 autistic participants, measures of structural language (content and/or form of language) and BoC, and an analysis of their association. BoCs included self-injurious behavior (SIB), aggression, tantrums, and externalizing behavior. Methodological quality of studies were assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Forty-five publications (n = 11,961) were included. Forty studies were cross-sectional and five were prospective cohort studies. Over 70% of the studies investigating expressive language and SIB (n = 10), aggression (n = 5), tantrums (n = 3), and externalizing behavior (n = 17) reported an inverse association, where lower expressive language ability was associated with increased BoC. Eleven out of sixteen studies of combined expressive and receptive language reported an inverse relationship with SIB or aggression. All outcomes were rated as moderate to very low certainty of evidence. This review highlights evidence showing an inverse association between expressive or combined language ability and SIB, and externalizing behavior in autism. However, further high-quality studies that use standardized, consistent measures of language and behavior and investigate longitudinal associations are needed. Early detection and support for reduced structural language difficulties have substantial potential to assist in reducing BoC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katrina Williams
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Developmental Paediatrics, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, Australia
| | - Tamara May
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Wei Herng Wan
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Amanda Brignell
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.,Developmental Paediatrics, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Speech Pathology, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Melbourne, Australia
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23
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Walter A, Martz E, Weibel S, Weiner L. Tackling emotional processing in adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder + autism spectrum disorder using emotional and action verbal fluency tasks. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1098210. [PMID: 36816409 PMCID: PMC9928945 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1098210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are two neurodevelopmental conditions with neuropsychological, social, emotional, and psychopathological similarities. Both are characterized by executive dysfunction, emotion dysregulation (ED), and psychiatric comorbidities. By focusing on emotions and embodied cognition, this study aims to improve the understanding of overlapping symptoms between ADHD and ASD through the use of verbal fluency tasks. Methods Fifty-two adults with ADHD, 13 adults with ADHD + ASD and 24 neurotypical (NT) participants were recruited in this study. A neuropsychological evaluation, including different verbal fluency conditions (e.g. emotional and action), was proposed. Subjects also completed several self-report questionnaires, such as scales measuring symptoms of ED. Results Compared to NT controls, adults with ADHD + ASD produced fewer anger-related emotions. Symptoms of emotion dysregulation were associated with an increased number of actions verbs and emotions produced in ADHD. Discussion The association between affective language of adults with ADHD and symptoms of emotion dysregulation may reflect their social maladjustment. Moreover, the addition of ADHD + ASD conditions may reflect more severe affective dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amélia Walter
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (UPR 3212), Strasbourg University, Strasbourg, France
| | - Emilie Martz
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1114, Strasbourg, France
| | - Sébastien Weibel
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1114, Strasbourg, France
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Luisa Weiner
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Cognitions, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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Díaz-Agea JL, Macías-Martínez N, Leal-Costa C, Girón-Poves G, García-Méndez JA, Jiménez-Ruiz I. What can be improved in learning to care for people with autism? A qualitative study based on clinical nursing simulation. Nurse Educ Pract 2022; 65:103488. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2022.103488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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25
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Chaxiong P, Dimian AF, Wolff JJ. Restricted and repetitive behavior in children with autism during the first three years of life: A systematic review. Front Psychol 2022; 13:986876. [PMID: 36389482 PMCID: PMC9661964 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.986876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Restricted and repetitive behavior (RRB) is a core diagnostic feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Previous research shows that RRB is prevalent early in life and observed in neurotypical development as well. Less is known, however, about early RRB patterns, developmental trajectories, and the relation to outcomes for autistic children. The purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize findings from studies examining RRB in autistic children from birth through age 3. A detailed protocol was designed a priori based on PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews. From the published literature, 41 peer reviewed journal articles were identified and included in this review. Our synthesis of the literature suggests that differences in RRB are evident prior to age 2 in children with or who go onto be diagnosed with autism. These differences were evident for both frequency and intensity of RRB across multiple topographies. There were mixed results regarding functional outcomes associated with early RRB, such as cognitive and adaptive behavior, though relations appeared to become stronger as children aged beyond toddlerhood. Notably, level of RRB appears unrelated to autism severity in young autistic children. A wide range of RRB have been reported to be elevated in autistic children during the first years of life, including repetitive motor behaviors, atypical sensory behaviors, insistence on sameness (IS), and self-injurious behaviors (SIBs). In contrast to studies of older children, RRB in very young autistic children do not appear to be associated with functional outcomes but may be valuable to include in early screening efforts. Systematic review registration https://osf.io/huzf3, unique identifier: doi: 10.17605/OSF.IO/HUZF3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pang Chaxiong
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Adele F. Dimian
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Jason J. Wolff
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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26
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Northrup JB, Goodwin MS, Peura CB, Chen Q, Taylor BJ, Siegel MS, Mazefsky CA. Mapping the time course of overt emotion dysregulation, self-injurious behavior, and aggression in psychiatrically hospitalized autistic youth: A naturalistic study. Autism Res 2022; 15:1855-1867. [PMID: 35751466 PMCID: PMC9560956 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Challenges with emotion dysregulation, self-injurious behavior (SIB), and aggression are common in autistic individuals. Prior research on the relationships between these behaviors is limited mainly to cross-sectional correlations of parent-report data. Understanding how emotion dysregulation, SIB, and aggression present and relate to one another in real-time could add to our understanding of the context and function of these behaviors. The present study examined the real-time occurrence and temporal relationships between these behaviors in 53 psychiatrically hospitalized autistic youth. Over 500 hours of behavioral observation occurred during everyday activities in the hospital. Start and stop times for instances of overt emotion dysregulation, SIB, and aggression were coded live using a custom mobile phone app. Results indicated large individual variability in the frequency and duration of these behaviors and their co-occurrence. Both SIB and aggression co-occurred with overt emotion dysregulation at above-chance levels, suggesting a role for emotional distress in the occurrence of these behaviors. However, there was substantial variability within and between individuals in co-occurrence, and SIB and aggression often (and for some individuals, almost always) occurred without overt emotion dysregulation. Relatedly, cross-recurrence quantitative analysis revealed that SIB and aggression preceded emotion dysregulation more often than emotion dysregulation preceded SIB and aggression. Future research, perhaps using ambulatory psychophysiological measures, is needed to understand whether emotion dysregulation may sometimes be present but not easily observed during SIB and aggression. LAY SUMMARY: This study provides insight into how overt emotion dysregulation (i.e., visible distress), aggression, and self-injury unfold in real-time for autistic individuals. Participants were 53 autistic youth staying in a psychiatric hospital. Research staff observed participants in everyday activities on the hospital unit and noted instances of aggression, self-injurious behavior, and emotion dysregulation. Results suggest that aggression and self-injury sometimes occur with visible signs of distress but also often occur without visible distress. In addition, observable distress was more common in the moments after these behaviors than in the moments before.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessie B Northrup
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Matthew S Goodwin
- Department of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christine B Peura
- Center for Psychiatric Research, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine, USA
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Briana J Taylor
- Center for Psychiatric Research, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine, USA
| | - Matthew S Siegel
- Center for Psychiatric Research, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine, USA
| | - Carla A Mazefsky
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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27
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Ringold SM, McGuire RW, Jayashankar A, Kilroy E, Butera CD, Harrison L, Cermak SA, Aziz-Zadeh L. Sensory Modulation in Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder Compared to Autism Spectrum Disorder and Typically Developing Children. Brain Sci 2022; 12:1171. [PMID: 36138908 PMCID: PMC9496992 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12091171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is one of the least studied and understood developmental disorders. One area that has been minimally investigated in DCD is potential issues with sensory modulation. Further, in other neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., autism spectrum disorder (ASD)) sensory modulation is related to many other challenges (e.g., social issues, repetitive behaviors, anxiety); however, such potential relationships in children with DCD have been largely unexplored. The purpose of this study is to explore sensory modulation differences in DCD and to understand the relationships between sensory modulation and social emotional measures, behavior, and motor skills in DCD in comparison to ASD and typically developing (TD) peers. Participants (aged 8-17) and their caregivers (DCD, N = 26; ASD, N = 57; and TD, N = 53) completed behavioral and clinical measures. The results indicated that 31% of the DCD group showed sensory modulation difficulties, with the DCD group falling between the ASD and TD groups. In the DCD group, sensory modulation was significantly associated with anxiety, empathic concern, repetitive behaviors, and motor skills. Data are compared to patterns seen in ASD and TD groups and implications for interventions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofronia M Ringold
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Riley W McGuire
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Aditya Jayashankar
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Emily Kilroy
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Christiana D Butera
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Laura Harrison
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Sharon A Cermak
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Lisa Aziz-Zadeh
- Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Brain and Creativity Institute, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
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28
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Seguin D, Pac S, Wang J, Nicolson R, Martinez-Trujillo J, Anagnostou E, Lerch JP, Hammill C, Schachar R, Crosbie J, Kelley E, Ayub M, Brian J, Liu X, Arnold PD, Georgiades S, Duerden EG. Amygdala subnuclei volumes and anxiety behaviors in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Hum Brain Mapp 2022; 43:4805-4816. [PMID: 35819018 PMCID: PMC9582362 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.26005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alterations in the structural maturation of the amygdala subnuclei volumes are associated with anxiety behaviors in adults and children with neurodevelopmental and associated disorders. This study investigated the relationship between amygdala subnuclei volumes and anxiety in 233 children and adolescents (mean age = 11.02 years; standard deviation = 3.17) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and children with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as typically developing (TD) children. Parents completed the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), and the children underwent structural MRI at 3 T. FreeSurfer software was used to automatically segment the amygdala subnuclei. A general linear model revealed that children and adolescents with ASD, ADHD, and OCD had higher anxiety scores compared to TD children (p < .001). A subsequent interaction analysis revealed that children with ASD (B = 0.09, p < .0001) and children with OCD (B = 0.1, p < .0001) who had high anxiety had larger right central nuclei volumes compared with TD children. Similar results were obtained for the right anterior amygdaloid area. Amygdala subnuclei volumes may be key to identifying children with neurodevelopmental disorders or those with OCD who are at high risk for anxiety. Findings may inform the development of targeted behavioral interventions to address anxiety behaviors and to assess the downstream effects of such interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Seguin
- Physiology & Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Sara Pac
- Neuroscience, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Jianan Wang
- Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Rob Nicolson
- Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Julio Martinez-Trujillo
- Physiology & Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Evdokia Anagnostou
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jason P Lerch
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, University of Oxford, FMRIB, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford, UK.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Muhammad Ayub
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Jessica Brian
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Xudong Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada.,Queen's Genomics Lab at Ongwanada (QGLO), Ongwanada Resource Center, Kingston, Canada
| | - Paul D Arnold
- Department of Psychiatry Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Stelios Georgiades
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Emma G Duerden
- Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.,Applied Psychology, Faculty of Education, Western University, London, Canada
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29
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Skaggs K, Nelson D, Luu M, Lightdale-Miric N. The Musculoskeletal Care of Children Who Self-Harm. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2022; 104:e21. [PMID: 35122683 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.21.00463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kira Skaggs
- Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Danielle Nelson
- Children's Orthopaedic Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Minnelly Luu
- Children's Orthopaedic Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Nina Lightdale-Miric
- Children's Orthopaedic Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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30
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Edelson SM. Comparison of Autistic Individuals Who Engage in Self-Injurious Behavior, Aggression, and Both Behaviors. Pediatr Rep 2021; 13:558-565. [PMID: 34698260 PMCID: PMC8544699 DOI: 10.3390/pediatric13040066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Two of the most challenging behaviors exhibited by individuals on the autism spectrum are self-injurious behavior (SIB) and aggression. The aim of this study was to identify co-occurring symptoms, behaviors, and medical comorbidities that may provide insight into understanding and treating these behaviors. METHOD A large-scale online survey was used to collect data on symptoms, behaviors, and medically related comorbidities commonly reported in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Based on responses from 2327 participants, individuals with ASD were divided into four categories: individuals who engaged in SIB only, individuals who engaged in aggression only, individuals who engaged in both behaviors, and individuals who engaged in neither behavior. RESULTS There were several characteristics and comorbidities associated with those who engaged in SIB only and in aggression only, in addition to those who engaged in both behaviors. CONCLUSION The findings in this study provide evidence to support at least two underlying causes of these behaviors (insensitivity to pain and reactions to food) as well as implications for treating them. Furthermore, several behaviors often observed during early childhood may be considered early predictors of these challenging behaviors.
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31
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Jones V, Ryan L, Rooker G, Debinski B, Parnham T, Mahoney P, Shields W. An Exploration of Emergency Department Visits for Home Unintentional Injuries Among Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder for Evidence to Modify Injury Prevention Guidelines. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e589-e593. [PMID: 34570078 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Current childhood injury prevention guidance is anchored by a child's age. For example, children are considered at high risk for falls at ages 4 years and less, and guidance for prevention focuses on these ages. However, these guidelines may not be adequate for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). METHODS This retrospective chart review examined injury characteristics for children with ASD receiving treatment in a pediatric emergency department between 2014 and 2016. Bivariate statistics determined injury demographic correlates. Chart narratives were also coded using traditional content analysis to determine the mechanism that caused the home injury. RESULTS The sample (27 cases) was mostly male (89%), Black (48%), with a mean age of 7.8 (SD, 4.9) years. The most common mechanism was a fall (44%), followed by self-injurious behavior (33%), and then burns (22%). All cases identified at least 1 mechanism contributing to the injury, in 2 cases, 2 items were mentioned. Of the 29 items identified, most involved a house feature that was not stairs (24%); some included stairs, furniture, or a combination of foreign object and grill (21%); and few identified food/beverage/liquid (11%). CONCLUSIONS Analyses suggest that unintentional home injury prevention for children with ASD may require prevention guidance extended through older ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanya Jones
- From the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | | | | | | | - Taylor Parnham
- From the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | | | - Wendy Shields
- From the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
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32
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Blanchard A, Chihuri S, DiGuiseppi CG, Li G. Risk of Self-harm in Children and Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e2130272. [PMID: 34665237 PMCID: PMC8527356 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.30272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Multiple studies have reported that people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at a higher risk for self-injurious behavior and suicide. However, the magnitude of this association varies between studies. OBJECTIVE To appraise the available epidemiologic studies on the risk of self-injurious behavior and suicidality among children and adults with ASD. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were systematically searched for epidemiologic studies on the association between ASD and self-injurious behavior and suicidality. Databases were searched from year of inception to April through June 2020. No language, age, or date restrictions were applied. STUDY SELECTION This systematic review and meta-analysis included studies with an observational design and compared self-injurious behavior (defined as nonaccidental behavior resulting in self-inflicted physical injury but without intent of suicide or sexual arousal) and/or suicidality (defined as suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, or suicide) in children (aged <20 years) or adults (aged ≥20 years) with ASD. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Information on study design, study population, ASD and self-harm definitions, and outcomes were extracted by independent investigators. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Overall summary odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs were estimated using DerSimonian-Laird random-effects models. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The ORs for the associations of ASD with self-injurious behavior and suicidality were calculated. Analyses were stratified by study setting and age groups as planned a priori. RESULTS The search identified 31 eligible studies, which were of moderate to high quality. Of these studies, 16 (52%) were conducted in children, 13 (42%) in adults, and 2 (6%) in both children and adults. Seventeen studies assessed the association between ASD and self-injurious behavior and reported ORs that ranged from 1.21 to 18.76, resulting in a pooled OR of 3.18 (95% CI, 2.45-4.12). Sixteen studies assessed the association between ASD and suicidality and reported ORs that ranged from 0.86 to 11.10, resulting in a pooled OR of 3.32 (95% CI, 2.60-4.24). In stratified analyses, results were consistent between clinical and nonclinical settings and between children and adults. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This study found that ASD was associated with a substantial increase in odds of self-injurious behavior and suicidality in children and adults. Further research is needed to examine the role of primary care screenings, increased access to preventive mental health services, and lethal means counseling in reducing self-harm in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Blanchard
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York
| | - Stanford Chihuri
- Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York
| | - Carolyn G. DiGuiseppi
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Guohua Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York
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33
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Self-injurious behaviors in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder without intellectual disability. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02299-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Gender Differences in Misdiagnosis and Delayed Diagnosis among Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder with No Language or Intellectual Disability. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11070912. [PMID: 34356146 PMCID: PMC8306851 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11070912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is often unrecognized, especially in mild forms and in women. Studies evaluating features associated with missed/misdiagnosis in men and women with ASD are warranted. 61 subjects (22 females, 39 males, age 28.5 ± 10.8 years) with ASD with no language/intellectual deficit were enrolled in the service for the treatment of psychiatric comorbidities in adults with ASD of the ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco in Milan (Italy). A detailed clinical history was gathered, and two self-report questionnaires (Autism Spectrum Quotient-AQ and Adult Autism Subthreshold Spectrum-AdAS Spectrum) were administered. 75.4% received their ASD diagnosis average eight years later than the first evaluation by mental health services. Compared to males, females showed a significantly greater delay in referral to mental health services and a significantly higher age at diagnosis of ASD. Among men, diagnostic delay inversely correlated with scores on the AdAS Spectrum total, Verbal communication, Empathy and Inflexibility and adherence to routine domains. Among women, diagnostic delay positively correlated with the Attention to detail score while the age at diagnosis of ASD positively correlated with the AdAS Spectrum Verbal communication and Restricted interests and rumination domain scores. Females were less likely to be correctly diagnosed and more likely to be misdiagnosed at first evaluation than men. Females reported significantly higher scores than men in the Hyper/Hyporeactivity to sensory input domain only among subjects who were misdiagnosed. Our findings provide gender-specific information about ASD patients seeking help for comorbid conditions and might be a primary ground for future research.
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35
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Goldfarb Y, Zafrani O, Hedley D, Yaari M, Gal E. Autistic adults' subjective experiences of hoarding and self-injurious behaviors. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 25:1457-1468. [PMID: 33631948 PMCID: PMC8264636 DOI: 10.1177/1362361321992640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Hoarding and self-injurious behaviors are relatively common in autism, but knowledge about their expressions in adulthood is scarce. Through interviews collecting subjective experiences of autistic adults, these behaviors were explored, and categorized to their underlying purposes. Findings portray the occurrence of these behaviors in the lives of autistic adults, their self-regulatory purposes, and their relationship to other behaviors in the domain of Restrictive and Repetitive Behaviors and Interests.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Maya Yaari
- La Trobe University, Australia
- GOSHEN—Community Child Health and Well-Being, Israel
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36
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Investigating the Relationship between Autistic Traits, Ruminative Thinking, and Suicidality in a Clinical Sample of Subjects with Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11050621. [PMID: 34066194 PMCID: PMC8151773 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Previous literature reported in both subjects with Borderline personality disorder (BPD) and Bipolar disorder (BD) higher levels of autistic traits, linked to a greater suicidality risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the presence of autistic traits in a sample of individuals with BD or BPD, with a specific focus on suicidality. (2) Methods: We recruited two clinical samples of subjects (BPD and BD) and a control group without a diagnosis according to DSM-5 (CTL). Subjects were assessed with the AdAS Spectrum, the RRS and, for evaluating suicidality, the MOODS-SR. (3) Results: The CTL group showed significantly lower scores of both BD and BPD on AdAS Spectrum, RRS, and suicidality scores. BPD subjects showed significantly lower scores than BD ones in most of AdAS Spectrum domain scores. Correlation and regression analyses highlighted specific patterns of association among AdAS Spectrum domains, RRS, and suicidality in each clinical group. (4) Conclusions: Both BPD and BD individuals show greater levels of autistic traits, which seem to be distributed in a continuum featuring the highest levels among BD subjects. In both disorders, higher autistic traits were linked to suicidal tendencies, although with different patterns of association between BD and BPD subjects.
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37
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Courtemanche AB, Black WR, Meyer JS. Hair Cortisol and Self-Injurious Behavior Among Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 126:158-166. [PMID: 33651886 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-126.2.158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Elevated salivary cortisol levels have been documented in individuals who engage in self-injurious behavior (SIB), indicating acute physiological stress. Less is known about the chronicity of stress and SIB. We analyzed the relationship between parent ratings of problem behavior and hair cortisol concentrations (an index of chronic adrenocortical activity) in 23 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Parent ratings of problem behavior were not significantly correlated with hair cortisol concentrations. When children were categorized into groups based on the frequency and severity of SIB, participants with the greatest frequency and severity of SIB had higher hair cortisol concentrations compared to children without SIB. Frequent and severe SIB may be associated with altered hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity in children with ASD.
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38
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Cantin-Garside KD, Nussbaum MA, White SW, Kim S, Kim CD, Fortes DMG, Valdez RS. Understanding the experiences of self-injurious behavior in autism spectrum disorder: Implications for monitoring technology design. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2021; 28:303-310. [PMID: 32974678 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocaa169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Monitoring technology may assist in managing self-injurious behavior (SIB), a pervasive concern in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Affiliated stakeholder perspectives should be considered to design effective and accepted SIB monitoring methods. We examined caregiver experiences to generate design guidance for SIB monitoring technology. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-three educators and 16 parents of individuals with ASD and SIB completed interviews or focus groups to discuss needs related to monitoring SIB and associated technology use. RESULTS Qualitative content analysis of participant responses revealed 7 main themes associated with SIB and technology: triggers, emotional responses, SIB characteristics, management approaches, caregiver impact, child/student impact, and sensory/technology preferences. DISCUSSION The derived themes indicated areas of emphasis for design at the intersection of monitoring and SIB. Systems design at this intersection should consider the range of manifestations of and management approaches for SIB. It should also attend to interactions among children with SIB, their caregivers, and the technology. Design should prioritize the transferability of physical technology and behavioral data as well as the safety, durability, and sensory implications of technology. CONCLUSIONS The collected stakeholder perspectives provide preliminary groundwork for an SIB monitoring system responsive to needs as articulated by caregivers. Technology design based on this groundwork should follow an iterative process that meaningfully engages caregivers and individuals with SIB in naturalistic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine D Cantin-Garside
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Maury A Nussbaum
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Susan W White
- Department of Psychology, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - Sunwook Kim
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Chung Do Kim
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Diogo M G Fortes
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Rupa S Valdez
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Singh NN, Lancioni GE, Medvedev ON, Hwang YS, Myers RE. Real-Time Telehealth Treatment Team Consultation for Self-Injury by Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. ADVANCES IN NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2021; 5:170-182. [PMID: 33490369 PMCID: PMC7813971 DOI: 10.1007/s41252-021-00192-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Self-injurious behavior (SIB) refers to any repeated self-directed, non-suicidal, behavior that may cause or has the potential to cause physical harm to the person's body. Behavioral interventions provide the standard evidence-based treatments for SIB by people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disabilities (ID). Translating the proven effectiveness of behavioral interventions to treatment of self-injury in community settings by clinicians and caregivers has not been totally successful. The aim of the present study was to advance translational research by providing real-time telehealth consultation to a treatment team at a community-based mental health agency that provided inpatient and outpatient services to individuals with ASD and ID. METHOD The participants of this single-case experimental study were three adolescents with ASD who had been referred for services because of their increasingly unmanageable SIB both at home and at school. The telehealth consultant provided real-time assistance to the treatment team within a translational model of care in the development and implementation of a behavior support plan and an informal mindfulness-based Soles of the Feet (SoF) program. RESULTS Both visual and statistical analyses demonstrated reductions in the frequency of SIB for all three adolescents, with overall clinically significant reductions only with the SoF intervention. CONCLUSION The results of this translational study suggest that telehealth consultation might be a viable technological alternative in situations which preclude face-to-face consultation. Telehealth consultation could be one method of supporting people with behavioral difficulties during pandemics, such as COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirbhay N. Singh
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912 USA
| | - Giulio E. Lancioni
- Department of Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Oleg N. Medvedev
- School of Psychology, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Yoon-Suk Hwang
- Centre for Disability Studies, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050 Australia
| | - Rachel E. Myers
- WellStar School of Nursing, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA USA
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40
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An Exploratory Analysis of Predictors of Youth Suicide-Related Behaviors in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Implications for Prevention Science. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:3531-3544. [PMID: 31820342 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04320-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with significant mental health concerns, little is known about suicidality, particularly among youth. To address this critical gap in the literature, the current study examined the predictive validity of (1) demographics, (2) core autism symptoms, (3) cognitive abilities and adaptive behavior, (4) comorbid psychopathology, and (5) medical problems, for suicide-related behaviors among autistic youth (N = 481; Mage = 11.56 years). As indices of suicide-related behaviors, parents reported on whether the child had ever (1) talked about killing themselves, and (2) engaged in deliberate self-harm or attempted suicide. These two suicide-related outcomes had distinct clinical correlates, including child age, parental education, restricted and repetitive behaviors, IQ and adaptive behavior, affective and conduct problems, and medical concerns.
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41
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Conner CM, Golt J, Righi G, Shaffer R, Siegel M, Mazefsky CA. A Comparative Study of Suicidality and Its Association with Emotion Regulation Impairment in Large ASD and US Census-Matched Samples. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:3545-3560. [PMID: 31939083 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04370-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Evidence suggests increased rates of suicidality in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but the research has rarely used comparison samples and the role of emotion dysregulation has not been considered. We compared the prevalence of parent-reported suicidality ideation and considered the role of emotion dysregulation in 330 psychiatric inpatient youth with ASD, 1169 community youth with ASD surveyed online, and 1000 youth representative of the US census. The prevalence of suicidal ideation was three and five times higher in the community and inpatient ASD samples, respectively, compared to the general US sample. In the ASD groups, greater emotion dysregulation was associated with suicidal ideation. Implications include consideration of emotion regulation as a potential mechanism and treatment target for suicidality in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin M Conner
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3811 O'Hara Street, Webster Hall Suite 300, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Josh Golt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3811 O'Hara Street, Webster Hall Suite 300, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Giulia Righi
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
- Division of Biology and Medicine, Rhode Island Consortium for Autism Research and Treatment (RI-CART), and the Hassenfeld Child Health Innovation Institute (HCHII), Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Rebecca Shaffer
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Matthew Siegel
- Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Spring Harbor Hospital, Tufts University School of Medicine, Westbrook, ME, USA
| | - Carla A Mazefsky
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3811 O'Hara Street, Webster Hall Suite 300, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
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42
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Kurtz-Nelson EC, Tham SW, Ahlers K, Cho D, Wallace AS, Eichler EE, Bernier RA, Earl RK. Brief Report: Associations Between Self-injurious Behaviors and Abdominal Pain Among Individuals with ASD-Associated Disruptive Mutations. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 51:3365-3373. [PMID: 33175317 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04774-z] [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: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Self-injurious behaviors (SIB) are elevated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related genetic disorders, but the genetic and biological mechanisms that contribute to SIB in ASD are poorly understood. This study examined rates and predictors of SIB in 112 individuals with disruptive mutations to ASD-risk genes. Current SIB were reported in 30% of participants and associated with poorer cognitive and adaptive skills. History of severe abdominal pain predicted higher rates of SIB and SIB severity after controlling for age and adaptive behavior; individuals with a history of severe abdominal pain were eight times more likely to exhibit SIB than those with no history. Future research is needed to examine associations between genetic risk, pain, and SIB in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangeline C Kurtz-Nelson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - See Wan Tham
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Ahlers
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Daniel Cho
- Seattle Children's Autism Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Arianne S Wallace
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Evan E Eichler
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Raphael A Bernier
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Rachel K Earl
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.
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43
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Steenfeldt-Kristensen C, Jones CA, Richards C. The Prevalence of Self-injurious Behaviour in Autism: A Meta-analytic Study. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:3857-3873. [PMID: 32297123 PMCID: PMC7557528 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04443-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Self-injurious behaviour is purportedly common in autism, but prevalence rates have not yet been synthesised meta-analytically. In the present study, data from 14,379 participants in thirty-seven papers were analysed to generate a pooled prevalence estimate of self-injury in autism of 42% (confidence intervals 0.38-0.47). Hand-hitting topography was the most common form of self-injury (23%), self-cutting topography the least common (3%). Sub-group analyses revealed no association between study quality, participant intellectual disability or age and overall prevalence rate of self-injury. However, females obtained higher prevalence rates than males (p = .013) and hair pulling and self-scratching were associated with intellectual disability (p = .008 and p = .002, respectively). The results confirm very high rates of self-injury in autism and highlight within group risk-markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Steenfeldt-Kristensen
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
- Children's Neurodevelopmental Service, Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership Trust, City of Coventry Health Centre, Paybody Building, 2 Stoney Stanton Road, Coventry, CV1 4FS, UK
| | - Chris A Jones
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Caroline Richards
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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44
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Dellapiazza F, Michelon C, Oreve MJ, Robel L, Schoenberger M, Chatel C, Vesperini S, Maffre T, Schmidt R, Blanc N, Vernhet C, Picot MC, Baghdadli A. The Impact of Atypical Sensory Processing on Adaptive Functioning and Maladaptive Behaviors in Autism Spectrum Disorder During Childhood: Results From the ELENA Cohort. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:2142-2152. [PMID: 30868365 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-03970-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Atypical sensory processing is common in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), but their role in adaptive difficulties and problem behaviors is poorly understood. Our aim was to determine the prevalence and type of atypical sensory processing in children with ASD and investigate its impact on their adaptive functioning and maladaptive behaviors. We studied a subsample of 197 children rigorously diagnosed with ASD from the ELENA cohort. Children were divided into atypical and typical sensory processing groups and several independent variables were compared, including adaptive functioning and maladaptive behaviors. Overall, 86.8% of the children had at least one atypical sensory pattern and all sensory modalities were disturbed. Atypical sensory processing explained a significant part of the variance of behavioral problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florine Dellapiazza
- Department of Psychiatry and Autism Resources Center, University Research and Hospital Center (CHU) of Montpellier, 34000, Montpellier, France.,Centre de Recherche en Épidémiologie et Santé des Populations, U1178, INSERM, Paris, France.,Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Univ. Montpellier, EPSYLON EA 4556, 34000, Montpellier, France
| | - Cécile Michelon
- Department of Psychiatry and Autism Resources Center, University Research and Hospital Center (CHU) of Montpellier, 34000, Montpellier, France
| | - Marie-Joelle Oreve
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier de Versailles, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Le Chesnay, France
| | - Laurence Robel
- Service de Pédopsychiatrie, Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris V, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Stéphanie Vesperini
- Autism Resources Centre, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, University Hospital CHU-Lenval, Nice, France
| | - Thierry Maffre
- Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, CHU de Toulouse, Hôpital La Grave, Toulouse, France.,Centre de Ressources Autisme Midi-Pyrénées, Hôpital La Grave, Toulouse, France
| | - Richard Schmidt
- Department of Psychology, College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Nathalie Blanc
- Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Univ. Montpellier, EPSYLON EA 4556, 34000, Montpellier, France
| | - Christelle Vernhet
- Department of Psychiatry and Autism Resources Center, University Research and Hospital Center (CHU) of Montpellier, 34000, Montpellier, France.,Centre de Recherche en Épidémiologie et Santé des Populations, U1178, INSERM, Paris, France.,Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Univ. Montpellier, EPSYLON EA 4556, 34000, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Amaria Baghdadli
- Department of Psychiatry and Autism Resources Center, University Research and Hospital Center (CHU) of Montpellier, 34000, Montpellier, France. .,Centre de Recherche en Épidémiologie et Santé des Populations, U1178, INSERM, Paris, France. .,School of Medicine, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.
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45
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Anteraper SA, Guell X, Hollinshead MO, D'Mello A, Whitfield-Gabrieli S, Biederman J, Joshi G. Functional Alterations Associated with Structural Abnormalities in Adults with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder. Brain Connect 2020; 10:368-376. [DOI: 10.1089/brain.2020.0746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sheeba Arnold Anteraper
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Alan and Lorraine Bressler Clinical and Research Program for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Xavier Guell
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marisa O. Hollinshead
- Department of Psychology, Center for Brain Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anila D'Mello
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Joseph Biederman
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gagan Joshi
- Alan and Lorraine Bressler Clinical and Research Program for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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46
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Repetitive and Self-injurious Behaviors in Children with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 51:1748-1758. [PMID: 32809170 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04617-x] [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] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is associated with repetitive and self-injurious behaviors (RBs, SIB). Evaluating children with CdLS, this study: (1) characterizes the spectrum of RBs; (2) characterizes the impact and severity of RBs including SIB; (3) describes how age and adaptive functioning relate to RBs including SIB. Fifty children (5-17 years) with CdLS were assessed with Children's Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale Modified for PDD; Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC); Vineland Adaptive Behaviors Scales (VABS). All children had ≥ 1 type of RB; 44% had some form of SIB. 64% spent > 1 h/day displaying RBs. Lower VABS adaptive functioning was associated with higher stereotypy and SIB scores (ABC). In children with CdLS, RBs including SIB are common, impactful, and associated with lower adaptive functioning.
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47
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Prevalence and clinical correlates of self-injurious behavior in Tourette syndrome. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 113:299-307. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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48
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What is the Prevalence of Self-harming and Suicidal Behaviour in Under 18s with ASD, With or Without an Intellectual Disability? J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:3510-3524. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04422-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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49
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Associated Factors of Self-injury Among Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder in a Community and Residential Treatment Setting. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:2987-3004. [PMID: 32056114 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04389-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Self-injurious behavior (SIB) occurs in up to 50% of individuals with autism. As one of the most serious conditions in individuals with developmental disabilities, SIB affects the individual and his or her family in multiple contexts. A systematic analysis of factors most commonly associated with SIB could inform the development of individualized intervention strategies. The current study examined factors related to SIB in an analysis of client records of 145 children with autism in a comprehensive care center. Predictor variables included age, gender, the Adaptive Behavior Composite, sensory processing, aggression, stereotypies, irritability, adaptive skills, and medical conditions. Age, irritability, and the Adaptive Behavior Composite were found to significantly predict SIB.
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50
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Moseley RL, Gregory NJ, Smith P, Allison C, Baron-Cohen S. Links between self-injury and suicidality in autism. Mol Autism 2020; 11:14. [PMID: 32039740 PMCID: PMC7008575 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-020-0319-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autistic individuals without intellectual disability are at heightened risk of self-injury, and appear to engage in it for similar reasons as non-autistic people. A wide divergence of autistic perspectives on self-injury, including those who frame it as a helpful coping mechanism, motivate investigating the link between self-injury, suicide ideation, and attempts which has been reported in typically developing individuals. METHOD One hundred three autistic participants completed the Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Assessment Tool (NSSI-AT), the Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire (SBQ-R), and the Interpersonal Social Evaluation List (ISEL-12) across two online studies. Logistic regression was conducted to predict self-harming status via responses to questions on suicidality, and to predict whether certain self-injurious behaviors, including cutting, were especially associated with suicide ideation and attempts. Non-parametric correlation analysis examined relationships between suicide ideation/attempts and other variables that might characterize self-harmers especially at risk of suicidality. These included perceived access to social support, purposes or reasons for self-injury, the number of different self-injurious behaviors engaged in, the duration and lifetime incidence of self-injury, and the individual's feelings about their self-injury. RESULTS While self-injuring status was significantly predicted by responses to a question on suicide ideation and attempts, there was no relationship between suicide ideation/attempts and a participant's personal feelings about their self-injury. The method of cutting was also predicted by suicide ideation and attempts, though other methods common in autistic people were at borderline significance. Use of self-injury for the regulation of low-energy emotional states like depression, for self-punishment or deterrence from suicide, and for sensory stimulation, was associated with suicide ideation and attempts, as was the number of self-injurious behaviors engaged in. There was no significant relationship between suicide ideation/attempts and the duration and lifetime incidence of self-injury or social support. CONCLUSIONS These preliminary data suggest that while individuals might frame their self-injury as a positive or neutral thing, there remains a concerning relationship between self-injury and suicidality which exists regardless of individual feelings on self-injury. This is consistent with the theoretical perspective that self-injury can be a "gateway" through which individuals acquire capability for lethal suicidal behaviors. The data highlight that particular methods (cutting) and reasons for self-injury may be of significant concern, but this information, which might be of extreme value for clinicians, requires further investigation and validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. L. Moseley
- Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
| | - N. J. Gregory
- Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
| | - P. Smith
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - C. Allison
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - S. Baron-Cohen
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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