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Dewinter J, Onaiwu MG, Massolo ML, Caplan R, Van Beneden E, Brörmann N, Crehan ET, Croen LA, Faja S, Gassner DL, Graham Holmes L, Hughes C, Hunter M, Huysamen M, Jelonche P, Lai MC, Noens I, Pukki H, Stokes MA, Strang JF, van der Miesen AIR. Short report: Recommendations for education, clinical practice, research, and policy on promoting well-being in autistic youth and adults through a positive focus on sexuality and gender diversity. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:770-779. [PMID: 37530121 PMCID: PMC10913304 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231188349] [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] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT In this article, we propose recommendations on what we can do to promote that autistic people can enjoy their sexuality and gender identity, because that contributes to overall well-being.First, we briefly summarize the existing research on sexuality and gender diversity in autistic individuals.Next, we propose recommendations for how to promote sexual and gender diversity-related health and well-being. Based on what is known about sexuality, gender diversity, and relationships in autistic adolescents and adults, we convened an international group of autistic and non-autistic researchers, advocates, parents, and professionals to develop recommendations to promote sexual and gender health in autistic people.The resulting recommendations were checked through an online survey distributed to autistic people across the world. The online participants endorsed the importance of eight final recommendations related to:1. Providing education and information on sexuality, relationships, and gender diversity to autistic individuals and their families;2. Improving expertise in and accessibility to healthcare for sexuality, relationships, and gender-related questions, with specific attention to prevention of and support after sexual victimization; and3. Meaningfully including the autism community in future research that addresses well-being relating to sexuality, relationships, and gender diversity.These community-driven recommendations aim to promote sexual health and well-being in autistic individuals internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Susan Faja
- Boston Children’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Heta Pukki
- European Council of Autistic People, Finland
| | | | - John F Strang
- George Washington University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Anna IR van der Miesen
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location Vrije Universiteit, The Netherlands
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2
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Groenman AP, van der Oord S, Geurts HM. Navigating adolescence: pubertal development in autism spectrum conditions and its relation to mental health. Arch Womens Ment Health 2024:10.1007/s00737-023-01414-0. [PMID: 38225364 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-023-01414-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Adolescence is a period of social, psychological, and physiological change, including the onset of puberty. Differential pubertal onset has been linked to a myriad of problems, including mental health problems. Therefore, we aim to investigate deviating pubertal development in autism, and whether this is more pronounced in girls than in boys. A total of 68 individuals (nASC = 34, nCOM (comparisons) = 34) aged 12 to 16 years were administered test concerning pubertal development and mental health (i.e., sensory sensitivity, autistic traits, depression, anxiety, and externalizing problems). Frequentist and Bayesian ANOVA was used to examine deviations in pubertal development in ASC and possible sex effects. Regression analyses was used to test whether this asynchronicity was linked to mental health problems. Our (frequentist and Bayesian) analyses revealed earlier onset and slower development of pubertal development in ASC but we did not find any sex differences. Maturation disparity was linked to higher mental health problems in ASC, but not in COM. No sex differences in the relation with mental health outcomes was found. We found evidence for a slower development of "true" puberty in those with ASC compared to those without. Moreover, we show that disparities in pubertal development are related to mental health in ASC, suggesting a greater impact on mental health in autistic than in non-autistic teens. Longitudinal studies are necessary to elucidate important developmental trajectories in puberty in neurodiverse populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabeth P Groenman
- Dutch Autism and ADHD Research Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Hilde M Geurts
- Dutch Autism and ADHD Research Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Leo Kannerhuis, Youz/Parnassiagroep, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Rea HM, Clawson A, Hudac CM, Santhosh M, Bernier RA, Earl RK, Pelphrey KA, Webb SJ, Neuhaus E. Pubertal maturation and timing effects on resting state electroencephalography in autistic and comparison youth. Dev Psychobiol 2023; 65:e22415. [PMID: 37860899 PMCID: PMC10713348 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Autistic and comparison individuals differ in resting-state electroencephalography (EEG), such that sex and age explain variability within and between groups. Pubertal maturation and timing may further explain variation, as previous work has suggested alterations in pubertal timing in autistic youth. In a sample from two studies of 181 autistic and 94 comparison youth (8 years to 17 years and 11 months), mixed-effects linear regressions were conducted to assess differences in EEG (midline power for theta, alpha, and beta frequency bands). Alpha power was analyzed as a mediator in the relation between pubertal maturation and timing with autistic traits in the autistic groups to understand the role of puberty in brain-based changes that contribute to functional outcomes. Individuals advanced in puberty exhibited decreased power in all bands. Those who experienced puberty relatively early showed decreased power in theta and beta bands, controlling for age, sex, and diagnosis. Autistic individuals further along in pubertal development exhibited lower social skills. Alpha mediated the relation between puberty and repetitive behaviors. Pubertal maturation and timing appear to play unique roles in the development of cognitive processes for autistic and comparison youth and should be considered in research on developmental variation in resting-state EEG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Rea
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ann Clawson
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Caitlin M Hudac
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Megha Santhosh
- Center on Child Health, Behavior and Development, Seattle Children's Research 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
| | - Kevin A Pelphrey
- Brain Institute, Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Sara Jane Webb
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center on Child Health, Behavior and Development, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Emily Neuhaus
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Center on Child Health, Behavior and Development, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Corbett BA, Muscatello RA, Kim A, Vandekar S, Duffus S, Sparks S, Tanguturi Y. Examination of pubertal timing and tempo in females and males with autism spectrum disorder compared to typically developing youth. Autism Res 2022; 15:1894-1908. [PMID: 35912944 PMCID: PMC9561009 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by impaired social communication and poor adaptation to change; thus, pubertal development may be precarious. Pubertal timing and tempo were measured in 244 youth (7.9% Black, 83.3% White, and 8.7% multiracial) with ASD (N = 140) and typical development (N = 104). Pubertal development was measured using Tanner staging of Genital (G, males), Breast (B, females), and pubic hair (PH) in both sexes at Year 1 (10-13 years), Year 2 (11-14 years), and Year 3 (12-15 years). Nonlinear mixed effects models analyzed interindividual differences in timing and tempo. For both sexes, ASD and higher body mass index were associated with earlier pubertal timing. Males generally exhibited faster tempo than females. Linear regression models did not show associations between pubertal timing and internalizing symptoms at time three. Findings showing advanced pubertal maturation in ASD youth suggest greater risk of psychological, social, and physiological challenges. LAY SUMMARY: Youth with ASD have difficulty in social communication and adaption to change, thus puberty may be a challenging transition. The study examined onset (timing) and progression (tempo) of puberty over three years, using physical exam, in 244 adolescents with and without ASD, enrolled at ages 10-13. ASD youth started puberty earlier, while males generally progressed at a faster pace. Further examination of puberty in ASD should identify impact on social, behavioral, and mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blythe A. Corbett
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Kennedy Center
- Vanderbilt University, Department of Psychology
| | - Rachael A. Muscatello
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | - Ahra Kim
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Biostatistics
| | - Simon Vandekar
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Biostatistics
| | - Sara Duffus
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics
| | - Sloane Sparks
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
| | - Yasas Tanguturi
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
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Simantov T, Pohl A, Tsompanidis A, Weir E, Lombardo MV, Ruigrok A, Smith P, Allison C, Baron-Cohen S, Uzefovsky F. Medical symptoms and conditions in autistic women. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2022; 26:373-388. [PMID: 34184558 PMCID: PMC8814970 DOI: 10.1177/13623613211022091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Sex-steroids, such as testosterone, are thought to be one of the biological factors implicated in autism. This relies on the sex bias in the diagnosis of autism (boys are approximately four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls) and findings of associations with fetal testosterone levels in traits and abilities related to autism. The current study aimed to examine the association between medical conditions and physical symptoms, which tend to manifest in adulthood, and autism in females. Moreover, we examined their association with autistic traits throughout the spectrum. We focused on autistic women because there is little research focusing on the healthcare needs of autistic women, but those that exist suggest heightened vulnerability, and lower access to medical care. We find that conditions related to steroid hormones function are more frequent in autistic women and that they correlate with autistic traits. Specifically, we found that body mass index, reproductive system diagnoses, prediabetes symptoms, irregular puberty onset, and menstrual irregularities were significantly more frequent in autistic women and were significantly correlated with autistic traits in neurotypical women. The findings have important implications for raising awareness in autistic women of the possibility of medical conditions which might need medical attention. In addition, healthcare providers should consider these associations when performing healthcare maintenance checks and/or screening for autism.
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Temelturk RD, Ilcioglu Ekici G, Beberoglu M, Siklar Z, Kilic BG. Managing precocious puberty: A necessity for psychiatric evaluation. Asian J Psychiatr 2021; 58:102617. [PMID: 33652287 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2021.102617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Precocious puberty (PP) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in school-age girls. It has been reported that there is an increased tendency for psychiatric disorders for early maturing girls. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of psychiatric problems and to investigate depression and anxiety levels, and self-concept characteristics in girls with PP. METHODS Girls with PP (n = 41) and controls (n = 45) aged 7-11 years participated in this study. Psychiatric evaluations were conducted with semi-structured interviews. Behavioral and emotional problems were assessed using Child Behavior Check List and Teacher Report Form. Children's Depression Inventory, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children and Piers-Harris Children's Self Concept Scale were administered, respectively. RESULTS Girls with PP had significantly more psychiatric diagnosis than controls (68.3 % vs 20 %, p < 0.001). PP group had significantly higher anxious-depressed, somatic complaints, social problems, aggresive behaviors and interestingly autistic traits. Increased symptom levels of depression and anxiety, and lower self-concept scores were also obtained from PP subjects. CONCLUSIONS PP is an independent predictor of psychiatric disorders. It is also associated with poorer psychiatric status, lower self esteem characteristics, and autistic traits. A multidisciplinary approach combining endocrinologic and psychiatric evaluations seem to be beneficial for the management of girls with PP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahime Duygu Temelturk
- Ankara Dr Sami Ulus Maternity Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Gokcen Ilcioglu Ekici
- Aksaray University Education and Research Hospital, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Aksaray, Turkey
| | - Merih Beberoglu
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Siklar
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Birim Gunay Kilic
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ankara, Turkey
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Abstract
CASE John is a 4-year-old boy with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental delay who presented with concerns about increasing aggressive behavior at a follow-up visit with his developmental-behavioral pediatrician. Diagnosis of ASD was made via Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th version criteria at initial evaluation at 34 months. Medical history at that time was pertinent for rapid linear growth since the age of 1 and recent pubic hair growth and penile enlargement. Family history was significant for early puberty in a maternal uncle and 4 distant maternal relatives. Standardized testing included administration of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale 2-Standard, which was consistent with severe symptoms of ASD, and the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, which indicated moderate delay in fine motor skills and expressive language and severe delay in receptive language and visual receptive skills.At initial assessment, John's parents also reported a pattern of aggressive behavior, which included frequent hitting of other children at childcare, consistently forceful play with peers and family members, and nightly tantrums with hitting and throwing at bedtime. Triggers of aggressive behavior included other children taking his toys, transition away from preferred activities, and being told "no."John was concurrently evaluated by a pediatric endocrinologist at 34 months. At that assessment, his height Z-score was +2.5, and he had Tanner 2 pubic hair, Tanner 3 genitalia, and 6 cc testicular volumes. Radiograph of the hand revealed a bone age of 6 years (+7.8 S.D.). Laboratory studies revealed a markedly elevated testosterone level and low gonadotropin (luteinizing hormone [LH] and follicle-stimulating hormone) levels and a normal dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, suggestive of peripheral precocious puberty. Targeted genetic testing with sequencing of the LHCGR gene revealed a heterozygous D578G mutation resulting in the rare condition Familial Male-Limited Precocious Puberty (FMPP), characterized by constitutive activation of the LH receptor. FMPP, also referred to as testotoxicosis, was attributed as the cause of John's peripheral precocious puberty.By the age of 4, John's height Z-score was +3.1, his genitalia larger, and his bone age 10 years (+10.3 S.D.). His parents elected to start off-label therapy with bicalutamide (a nonsteroidal antiandrogen) and anastrazole (an aromatase inhibitor), recommended by the endocrinologist. Unexpectedly, as John's hyperandrogenism was treated, John's family reported intensified aggression toward other children and adults, especially at school, in addition to multiple daily instances of biting when upset. What is your next step in John's treatment of his challenging behavior? REFERENCE 1. Shenker A, Laue L, Kosugi S, et al. A constitutively activating mutation of the luteinizing hormone receptor in familial male precocious puberty. Nature. 1993;365:652-654.
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Olson LA, Mash LE, Linke A, Fong CH, Müller RA, Fishman I. Sex-related patterns of intrinsic functional connectivity in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2020; 24:2190-2201. [PMID: 32689820 PMCID: PMC7541740 DOI: 10.1177/1362361320938194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
LAY SUMMARY We investigated whether children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders show sex-specific patterns of brain function (using functional magnetic resonance imaging) that are well documented in typically developing males and females. We found, unexpectedly, that boys and girls with autism do not differ in their brain functional connectivity, whereas typically developing boys and girls showed differences in a brain network involved in thinking about self and others (the default mode network). Results suggest that autism may be characterized by a lack of brain sex differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay A Olson
- San Diego State University, USA
- San Diego State University / UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology
| | - Lisa E Mash
- San Diego State University, USA
- San Diego State University / UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology
| | | | - Christopher H Fong
- San Diego State University, USA
- San Diego State University / UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology
| | - Ralph-Axel Müller
- San Diego State University, USA
- San Diego State University / UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology
| | - Inna Fishman
- San Diego State University, USA
- San Diego State University / UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology
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Corbett BA, Vandekar S, Muscatello RA, Tanguturi Y. Pubertal Timing During Early Adolescence: Advanced Pubertal Onset in Females with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism Res 2020; 13:2202-2215. [PMID: 33043629 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by impaired social communication and poor adaptation to change; thus, the onset of puberty may be a pivotal transition. This cross-sectional study measured pubertal timing to examine hypothesized differences for sex (female vs. male) and group (ASD vs. typical development [TD]). Participants included 239 children (137 ASD, 102 TD) between 10 and 13 years. The ASD group included 35 females and 102 males; the TDs included 44 females and 58 males. Pubertal onset measured by genital or pubic stage was investigated with linear regression using main effects of sex and age-by-sex interactions in TD and ASD groups and main effects of diagnosis and diagnosis-by-age interactions in males and females, controlling for body mass index, socioeconomic status, and race. In TD, examination of main effects for genital (penis/breast) stage showed no difference for male and female children (t = 1.33, P = 0.187, rdf = 92); however, there were significant differences in ASD (t = 2.70, P = 0.008, rdf = 121). For diagnosis modeled separately by sex, there was significantly earlier pubertal development in females with ASD (t = 1.97, P = 0.053, rdf = 70, but not males (t = 1.329, P = 0.186, rdf = 143). In addition, analysis of menses revealed females with ASD had significantly earlier onset than TD (t = -2.56, P = 0.018, rdf = 21). Examination of pubic stage revealed expected sex differences for TD (t = 2,674, P = 0.009, rdf = 91) and ASD (t = 3.482, P = 0.001, rdf = 121). Females with ASD evidence advanced pubertal onset relative to ASD males and TD females. Findings underscore the need for enhanced understanding of pubertal development in ASD, as differences may have significant psychological, social, physiological, and developmental consequences. LAY SUMMARY: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have difficulty with social communication and respond poorly to change, which may include the onset and course of puberty. The study measured the timing of puberty in 239 children (137 ASD and 102 typical development [TD]) between 10 and 13 years based on pubertal stage of genital (breast/penis) and pubic hair development. Females with ASD evidence advanced pubertal onset relative to ASD males and TD females. Findings underscore the need for an enhanced understanding of pubertal development in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blythe A Corbett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Simon Vandekar
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | | | - Yasas Tanguturi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Clawson A, Strang JF, Wallace GL, Gomez-Lobo V, Jack A, Webb SJ, Pelphrey KA. Parent-Child Concordance on the Pubertal Development Scale in Typically Developing and Autistic Youth. RESEARCH IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS 2020; 77:101610. [PMID: 32863862 PMCID: PMC7449027 DOI: 10.1016/j.rasd.2020.101610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Characterizing puberty in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is critical given the direct impacts of pubertal progression on neural, cognitive, and physical maturation. Limited information is available about the utility and parent-child concordance of the self-report and parent-report Pubertal Development Scale (PDS) in ASD, an economical and easily administered measure. METHOD The primary aim of this study was to examine the concordance between self-report and parent-report PDS ratings in autistic males and females ages 8-17y compared to typically developing (TD) youth, including using the PDS to derive informant-based estimates of adrenal and gonadal development. We hypothesized that there would be greater parent-youth discrepancies in pubertal ratings among autistic males. Our second aim was exploratory; we examined whether individual characteristics impact PDS concordance and hypothesized that lower intellectual and adaptive skills, higher autistic traits, and reduced self-awareness/monitoring would correlate with lower concordance. RESULTS There were no significant diagnostic group differences in parent-youth concordance for overall PDS scores among males and females. Autistic males had significantly lower inter-item agreement with their parents than TD males and had lower agreement for both adrenal and gonadal aspects of pubertal maturation (adrenal κ=.48; gonadal κ=.55). CONCLUSIONS The PDS is a feasible measure in ASD. Greater parent-youth discrepancies in autistic males may be due to reduced parental awareness or reduced insight into pubertal maturation among autistic males. Future research is needed to further elucidate individual and/or environmental characteristics that influence youth- and parent-reported PDS scores, including differences in self-perception and insight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Clawson
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children’s National
Hospital
| | - John F. Strang
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children’s National
Hospital
| | - Gregory L. Wallace
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, The
George Washington University
| | | | - Allison Jack
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University
| | - Sara J. Webb
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington
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11
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Kemp BJ, Cliff DP, Batterham M, Parrish AM. Socio-ecological predictors of non-organized physical activity participation and decline between childhood and adolescence. J Sports Sci 2020; 39:120-130. [PMID: 32795168 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2020.1808296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) tends to decline during late childhood and adolescence. In Australia, this decline has been shown to particularly occur non-organized PA (e.g., active play, informal sport). This study aimed to explore predictors of non-organized PA at 13y; and decline between 11y and 13y. Data were sourced from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Non-organized PA was measured using time-use diaries. Analyses included Cragg hurdle and binary logistic regressions. The likelihood of non-organized PA at 13y was predicted by PA enjoyment (OR = 1.36, p = 0.007), number of siblings (OR = 1.11, p < 0.001), sex (females) (OR = 0.66, p < 0.001) and home computer use at 11y (OR = 0.98, p = 0.002) (n = 3,193). Females also engaged in less non-organized PA at 13y (β = -77.77, p = 0.048) (n = 3,193). Significant predictors of decline in non-organized PA were socioeconomic position (OR = 0.92, p = 0.047) and sugary drink consumption at 11y (OR = 1.06, p = 0.033) (n = 3,222). Strategies to promote non-organized PA may include targeting females and those of lower socioeconomic position, and focusing on types of PA that may replace the perceived benefits of computer use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byron J Kemp
- Early Start, University of Wollongong , Australia.,School of Health and Society, Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong , Australia
| | - Dylan P Cliff
- Early Start, University of Wollongong , Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong , Australia.,School of Education, Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong , Australia
| | - Marijka Batterham
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong , Australia.,School of Mathematics and Applied Statistics, Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Wollongong , Australia.,National Institute for Applied Statistical Research Australia, University of Wollongong , Australia
| | - Anne-Maree Parrish
- Early Start, University of Wollongong , Australia.,School of Health and Society, Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong , Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong , Australia
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Corbett BA, Muscatello RA, Tanguturi Y, McGinn E, Ioannou S. Pubertal Development Measurement in Children With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Comparison Between Physical Exam, Parent- and Self-Report. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 49:4807-4819. [PMID: 31448383 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04192-w] [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: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Adolescence is a time of remarkable biopsychosocial change, which may be particularly challenging for youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), necessitating enhanced understanding and accurate assessment of pubertal maturation. The study compared physical examination to parent- and self-report measures in 200 participants (134 males and 66 females) ages 10.0-13.5 years. Both participants with typical development (TD, n = 78) and ASD (n = 122) were included. Concordance ranged from slight-to-fair for self-assessments (κ = .17-.32) and slight-to-moderate for parent-report (κ = .21-.44). Concordance of physical exam with self- and parent-report of the ASD group was somewhat lower than for the TD group. Findings indicate pubertal assessments by parent or child are not reliable indices of precise pubertal staging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blythe A Corbett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA. .,Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, PMB 40, 230 Appleton Place, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA.
| | | | - Yasas Tanguturi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Emily McGinn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Sara Ioannou
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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Pugliese CE, Ratto AB, Granader Y, Dudley KM, Bowen A, Baker C, Anthony LG. Feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a parent-mediated sexual education curriculum for youth with autism spectrum disorders. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2020; 24:64-79. [PMID: 31096780 PMCID: PMC6858939 DOI: 10.1177/1362361319842978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Youth with autism spectrum disorder can face social-communication challenges related to sexuality, dating, and friendships. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of the Supporting Teens with Autism on Relationships program. In total, 84 youth with autism spectrum disorder aged 9 to 18 and their parents participated in this study; two groups received the Supporting Teens with Autism on Relationships program (interventionist-led parent group vs parent self-guided), while an attentional control group received a substance abuse prevention program that included instruction in problem-solving and social skills. Feasibility and acceptability of the Supporting Teens with Autism on Relationships program was high overall. The Supporting Teens with Autism on Relationships program was effective in increasing parent and youth knowledge of sexuality, while the attentional control was not. There was preliminary support for improvement in parenting efficacy related to discussing sexuality with their children. Gains were seen among completers regardless of whether the parent received support from a facilitator. Implications and future directions are discussed.
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