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Kipkemoi P, Savage JE, Gona J, Rimba K, Kombe M, Mwangi P, Kipkoech C, Posthuma D, Newton CRJC, Abubakar A. Evaluation of the Psychometric Properties of the Social Communication Questionnaire in Rural Kenya. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06380-9. [PMID: 38816602 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06380-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Children can be reliably diagnosed with autism as early as 3 years of age, and early interventions are initiated. There is often a significant gap between the age of onset of symptoms (2-3 years) and diagnosis (8-10 years) in Africa. We conducted a study to validate the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) as a screening instrument in a rural setting in Kenya. The study was conducted along the Kenyan Coast. Study participants included 172 children with a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) diagnosis (84 of which were autism) and 112 controls. Internal consistency was evaluated through the use of Cronbach's alpha, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with maximum likelihood procedure to assess the conceptual model for the SCQ. Additionally, the sensitivity and specificity of cut-off scores using ROC analysis and item difficulties and discrimination quality using an IRT framework were also assessed. Factor analysis revealed an adequate fitting model for the three-factor DSM-IV-TR (root mean squared error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.050; Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.974; Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI) = 0.973) and two-factor DSM-5 factor structure (RMSEA = 0.050; CFI = 0.972; TLI = 0.974). The reliability coefficient alphas for the whole group for all items (Cronbach's α = 0.90) and all three domains (Cronbach's α = 0.68-0.84) were acceptable to excellent. The recommended cut-off score of 15 yielded 72% sensitivity and 100% specificity in the ASD group compared to the typically developing group. We provide early evidence of the adequate factor structure and good internal consistency of the SCQ. We also note that the recommended cut-off yielded sufficient predictive validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Kipkemoi
- Neuroscience Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya.
- Complex Trait Genetics Department, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Jeanne E Savage
- Complex Trait Genetics Department, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joseph Gona
- Neuroscience Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Rimba
- Neuroscience Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Martha Kombe
- Neuroscience Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Paul Mwangi
- Neuroscience Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Collins Kipkoech
- Neuroscience Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Danielle Posthuma
- Complex Trait Genetics Department, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychology and Psychiatry, Complex Trait Genetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Charles R J C Newton
- Neuroscience Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Warneford Ln, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK
- Department of Public Health, Pwani University, P.O. BOX, Kilifi, 195-80108, Kenya
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, P.O. BOX, Nairobi, 30270-00100, Kenya
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Neuroscience Unit, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O Box 230-80108, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Warneford Ln, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK
- Department of Public Health, Pwani University, P.O. BOX, Kilifi, 195-80108, Kenya
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, P.O. BOX, Nairobi, 30270-00100, Kenya
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Lee CM, Altschuler MR, Esler AN, Burrows CA, Hudock RL. Why are only some children with autism spectrum disorder misclassified by the social communication questionnaire? An empirical investigation of individual differences in sensitivity and specificity in a clinic-referred sample. J Neurodev Disord 2023; 15:28. [PMID: 37608249 PMCID: PMC10463287 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-023-09497-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) is a checklist for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) commonly used in research and clinical practice. While the original validation study suggested that the SCQ was an accurate ASD screener with satisfactory sensitivity and specificity, subsequent studies have yielded mixed results, with some revealing low sensitivity, low specificity, and low utility in some settings. METHOD The present study examined the psychometric properties of the SCQ as well as the individual difference characteristics of 187 individuals with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who were misclassified or accurately classified by the SCQ in a clinic-referred sample. RESULTS The SCQ showed suboptimal sensitivity and specificity, regardless of age and sex. Compared to true positives, individuals classified as false positives displayed greater externalizing and internalizing problems, whereas individuals classified as false negatives displayed better social communication and adaptive skills. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that non-autistic developmental and behavioral individual difference characteristics may explain high rates of misclassification using the SCQ. Clinicians and researchers could consider using the SCQ in combination with other tools for young children with internalizing and externalizing symptoms and other more complex clinical presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chimei M Lee
- Division of Clinical Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, 2025 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA.
| | | | - Amy N Esler
- Division of Clinical Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, 2025 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Catherine A Burrows
- Division of Clinical Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, 2025 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Rebekah L Hudock
- Division of Clinical Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, 2025 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
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Pedapati EV, Schmitt LM, Ethridge LE, Miyakoshi M, Sweeney JA, Liu R, Smith E, Shaffer RC, Dominick KC, Gilbert DL, Wu SW, Horn PS, Binder DK, Lamy M, Axford M, Erickson CA. Neocortical localization and thalamocortical modulation of neuronal hyperexcitability contribute to Fragile X Syndrome. Commun Biol 2022; 5:442. [PMID: 35546357 PMCID: PMC9095835 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03395-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is a monogenetic form of intellectual disability and autism in which well-established knockout (KO) animal models point to neuronal hyperexcitability and abnormal gamma-frequency physiology as a basis for key disorder features. Translating these findings into patients may identify tractable treatment targets. Using source modeling of resting-state electroencephalography data, we report findings in FXS, including 1) increases in localized gamma activity, 2) pervasive changes of theta/alpha activity, indicative of disrupted thalamocortical modulation coupled with elevated gamma power, 3) stepwise moderation of low and high-frequency abnormalities based on female sex, and 4) relationship of this physiology to intellectual disability and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Our observations extend findings in Fmr1-/- KO mice to patients with FXS and raise a key role for disrupted thalamocortical modulation in local hyperexcitability. This systems-level mechanism has received limited preclinical attention but has implications for understanding fundamental disease mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest V Pedapati
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Lauren M Schmitt
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Lauren E Ethridge
- Department of Pediatrics, Section on Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
| | - Makoto Miyakoshi
- Swartz Center for Computational Neuroscience, Institute for Neural Computation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - John A Sweeney
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Rui Liu
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Elizabeth Smith
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Rebecca C Shaffer
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kelli C Dominick
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Donald L Gilbert
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Steve W Wu
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Paul S Horn
- Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Devin K Binder
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Martine Lamy
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Megan Axford
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Craig A Erickson
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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4
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Dominick KC, Andrews HF, Kaufmann WE, Berry-Kravis E, Erickson CA. Psychotropic Drug Treatment Patterns in Persons with Fragile X Syndrome. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2021; 31:659-669. [PMID: 34818076 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2021.0042] [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] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Psychiatric comorbidity is common in fragile X syndrome (FXS) and often addressed through pharmacological management. Here we examine data in the Fragile X Online Registry With Accessible Research Database (FORWARD) to characterize specific symptoms being treated with psychotropic medication, patterns of medication use, as well as the influence of gender, intellectual disability (ID), age, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. Methods: Data were drawn from the 975 participants who have a completed clinician form. We explored the frequency of psychotropic medication use for the following symptom clusters: attention, hyperactivity, anxiety, hypersensitivity, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), mood swings, irritability/agitation, aggression, and self-injury (IAAS). Results: A majority of participants (617 or 63.3%) were taking a psychotropic medication, including investigational drugs. Medications were often targeting multiple symptoms. Psychotropic medication use was more common in males, adolescents, and those with comorbid ID and ASD. Anxiety was the most frequently targeted symptom, followed by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms and IAAS. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were the most frequently prescribed medication class among all patients (n = 266, 43%), followed by stimulants (n = 235, 38%), each with no gender difference. Antipsychotics were the third most frequently prescribed medication class (n = 205, 33%), and were more frequently prescribed to males and those with ID and ASD. Conclusions: Anxiety, attention and hyperactivity were the most common symptom targets for psychopharmacologic intervention in FXS. Our results support clinical knowledge that males with comorbid ASD and ID have a more severe presentation requiring more intervention including medications. These results highlight the need for examination of symptom overlap and interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelli C Dominick
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Howard F Andrews
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Walter E Kaufmann
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Neurological Sciences, and Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Craig A Erickson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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5
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Reyes NM, Moody E, Hightshoe K, Davidon S, Rosenberg S, Dahl E, Kubicek LF. Factors That May Influence Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) Scores: An Examination of the Spanish and English SCQ in School-Aged Students. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY REVIEW 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/2372966x.2021.1927830] [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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6
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Fekar Gharamaleki F, Bahrami B, Masumi J. Autism screening tests: A narrative review. J Public Health Res 2021; 11. [PMID: 34351096 PMCID: PMC8859712 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2021.2308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
As screening tests are tools to quantify communication-interactive abilities of speech and language; therefore, to evaluate, screen, diagnose and treat various aspects of one’s abilities, they are necessary. The purpose of this study is to review the existing autism screening tools, their subtests, administration, scoring, and application in clinical and research contexts in children and adults. This study was a review of autism screening tools; hence, an electronic search through databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Medline, SID, and Magiran was performed from 2000 to 2021. The tests were examined in terms of year of publication, duration, age range, assessment method, subtests, and psychometric properties and furthermore, they were reviewed in details. In this study, 19 autism screening tests were evaluated and The Autism Spectrum Quotient was found to have the shortest administration time while The Gilliam Autism Rating Scale had the longest, and the only test that varied in duration was the Autism Screening Instrument for educational planning. Autism screening is a complex issue. Reviewing these articles reveals that some tests have been used more in recent years due to their specialized subtests or easy and fast administration. Prompt testing is extremely crucial especially in emergency situations like the current COVID-19 pandemic the world is struggling with today. A review of speech tone tests shows that the CARS-2 is one of the most widely validated autism assessments. Significance for public health Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder associated with communication deficits, repetitive patterns, behaviors, and activities. Autism screening is a complex procedure that requires a piece of standard information and validated tools to help professionals in this process. Early autism screening plays a crucial role in treating the disorder and enhancing the quality of life and increasing the health level. Studies show that symptoms of autism manifest in the first two years of life. Therefore, if there is a suitable screening tool with a simple procedure that specialists can administer in a short time, these children could get diagnosed at an early age and thus have the opportunity for positive interventions. Tests with short administration time are specially needed now since with the outbreak of the COVID-19. Therefore, we conducted to investigate autism screening tests to access to help therapists select the appropriate test.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Boshra Bahrami
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz.
| | - Jafar Masumi
- Department of Speech Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz.
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7
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Chang Y, Kim B, Youn M. Changes in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder after Theraplay Application. Soa Chongsonyon Chongsin Uihak 2021; 32:112-117. [PMID: 34285636 PMCID: PMC8262971 DOI: 10.5765/jkacap.210001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study identified changes in social communication and interaction among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through Theraplay. Methods This study included 20 children who were diagnosed with ASD by a child and adolescent psychiatrist and were recommended to undergo Theraplay in 2012–2017. The Marschak interaction method was used to identify and analyze the interactions between parents and their children. The Korean version of the Social Communication Questionnaire (K-SCQ) was used to evaluate symptoms of ASD. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the differences before and after Theraplay. Results Upon comparing the differences in total K-SCQ scores, there were statistically significant changes (z=-3.269, p=0.001) in children with ASD. Changes were also confirmed in each category, namely social interaction, communication, and limited and repetitive behavior patterns (p=0.011, p=0.025, p=0.039, respectively). Conclusion This study found that Theraplay may cause significant changes in social communication in children with ASD. Further studies are needed to establish the effectiveness of Theraplay in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonyoung Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bongseog Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Miwon Youn
- Youn's Theraplay Counseling Center, Seoul, Korea
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Martins D, Paduraru M, Paloyelis Y. Heterogeneity in response to repeated intranasal oxytocin in schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders: A meta-analysis of variance. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:1525-1543. [PMID: 33739447 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Intranasal oxytocin (OT) has been suggested as a putative adjunctive treatment for patients with schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Here, we examine available evidence from trials investigating the effects of repeated administrations of intranasal OT on the core symptoms of patients with schizophrenia and ASD, focusing on its therapeutic efficacy and heterogeneity of response (meta-ANOVA). Repeated administration of intranasal OT does not improve most of the core symptoms of schizophrenia and ASD, beyond a small tentative effect on schizophrenia general symptoms. However, we found significant moderator effects for dose in schizophrenia total psychopathology and positive symptoms, and percentage of included men and duration of treatment in schizophrenia general symptoms. We found evidence of heterogeneity (increased variance) in the response of schizophrenia negative symptoms to intranasal OT compared with placebo, suggesting that subgroups of responsive and non-responsive patients might coexist. For other core symptoms of schizophrenia, or any of the core symptom dimensions in ASD, the response to repeated treatment with intranasal OT did not show evidence of heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Martins
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Maria Paduraru
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Yannis Paloyelis
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Arinda A, Nakasujja N, Odokonyero R. Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder symptoms in a paediatric neurology clinic at a tertiary hospital in Uganda. S Afr J Psychiatr 2021; 27:1548. [PMID: 33604074 PMCID: PMC7876953 DOI: 10.4102/sajpsychiatry.v27i0.1548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Children with neurological disorders are more likely to present with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms and get an ASD diagnosis. Despite the large burden of childhood neurological disorders in Uganda, there is limited information on ASD amongst children with neurological disorders in Uganda. Aim The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with ASD symptoms amongst children attending the paediatric neurology clinic. Setting The study was conducted at the paediatric neurology clinic of Mulago National Referral Hospital in Uganda. Methods This was a cross-sectional study of 318 children aged 2–9 years. After obtaining consent, a socio-demographic questionnaire and the Social Communication Questionnaire were administered to the caregivers of the children. Additional questions were administered to assess the prenatal, birth and postnatal characteristics of the children. Sample characteristics were described using frequencies and means. Bivariate analysis was carried out using chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess which factors were independently associated with ASD symptoms. Results The mean age of the children was 5 years and 58.2% were males. The prevalence of significant ASD symptoms was found to be 45%. Factors negatively associated with significant ASD symptoms were female sex (odds ratio [OR] 0.48 [95% CI 0.24, 0.98]) and ability to speak (OR 0.09 [95% CI 0.04, 0.2]). The history of delayed developmental milestones was positively associated with significant ASD symptoms (OR 3.3 [95% CI 1.59, 6.84]). Conclusion The prevalence of ASD symptoms is high in children with neurological disorders. Children, especially those with delayed developmental milestones, should routinely be screened for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Arinda
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Raymond Odokonyero
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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10
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Kirchner RM, Walton KM. Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children With Down Syndrome and Williams Syndrome. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 126:58-74. [PMID: 33370791 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-126.1.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Research suggests that people with a Williams syndrome (WS) or Down syndrome (DS) diagnosis display an increased prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) when compared to the general population. This study aimed to examine characteristics of ASD in a group of children with DS or WS. Results suggest that children with DS and WS exhibit higher levels of autism symptoms than the general population, particularly in the area of unusual behaviors, and that these elevations are not solely due to deficits in adaptive behavior. There are many possible explanations for these elevations, such as issues with measurement, etiological overlap, or similar behavioral phenotypes. More research is needed to further our understanding of the overlap of ASD symptoms in these populations.
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11
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Shulman C, Rice CE, Morrier MJ, Esler A. The Role of Diagnostic Instruments in Dual and Differential Diagnosis in Autism Spectrum Disorder Across the Lifespan. Psychiatr Clin North Am 2020; 43:605-628. [PMID: 33126998 DOI: 10.1016/j.psc.2020.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The heterogeneity inherent in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) makes the identification and diagnosis of ASD complex. We survey a large number of diagnostic tools, including screeners and tools designed for in-depth assessment. We also discuss the challenges presented by overlapping symptomatology between ASD and other disorders and the need to determine whether a diagnosis of ASD or another diagnosis best explains the individual's symptoms. We conclude with a call to action for the next steps necessary for meeting the diagnostic challenges presented here to improve the diagnostic process and to help understand each individual's particular ASD profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory Shulman
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Mount Scopus, Jerusalem, 91905, Israel.
| | - Catherine E Rice
- Emory Autism Center, 1551 Shoup Court, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Decatur, GA 30033, USA
| | - Michael J Morrier
- Emory Autism Center, 1551 Shoup Court, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Decatur, GA 30033, USA
| | - Amy Esler
- Division of Clinical Behavioral Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota 2540 Riverside Ave S., RPB 550, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
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12
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Improving the Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Fragile X Syndrome by Adapting the Social Communication Questionnaire and the Social Responsiveness Scale-2. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:3276-3295. [PMID: 31342442 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04148-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
We carried out a psychometric assessment of the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) and the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2) in fragile X syndrome (FXS), relative to clinician DSM5-based diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in FXS. This was followed by instrument revisions that included: removal of non-discriminating and/or low face validity items for FXS; use of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to determine optimal cut points for the original and revised measures; an exploratory factor analysis to outline subscales better representing ASD in FXS; and creation of a "triple criteria" diagnosis to better delineate ASD subgroups in FXS. These methods improved the sensitivity and/or specificity of the SCQ and SRS-2, but diagnostic accuracy of ASD remains problematic in FXS.
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13
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The Role of Diagnostic Instruments in Dual and Differential Diagnosis in Autism Spectrum Disorder Across the Lifespan. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2020; 29:275-299. [PMID: 32169263 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2020.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The heterogeneity inherent in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) makes the identification and diagnosis of ASD complex. We survey a large number of diagnostic tools, including screeners and tools designed for in-depth assessment. We also discuss the challenges presented by overlapping symptomatology between ASD and other disorders and the need to determine whether a diagnosis of ASD or another diagnosis best explains the individual's symptoms. We conclude with a call to action for the next steps necessary for meeting the diagnostic challenges presented here to improve the diagnostic process and to help understand each individual's particular ASD profile.
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14
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Pharmacologic Interventions for Irritability, Aggression, Agitation and Self-Injurious Behavior in Fragile X Syndrome: An Initial Cross-Sectional Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 49:4595-4602. [PMID: 31468273 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04173-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Using a dataset involving 415 individuals with irritability, aggression, agitation and self-injury (IAAS) behaviors from the fragile X syndrome (FXS) FORWARD database, we describe the psychopharmacologic management of IAAS and features of the population of persons with FXS treated with drug therapy for IAAS. Among those with FXS exhibiting IAAS, individuals with FXS receiving drug treatment of IAAS were older, more predominantly male, have more significant intellectual disability, more like to have comorbid autism, hyperarousal, and social impairments. The most commonly utilized medications for IAAS in FXS are antipsychotic medications, specifically aripiprazole and risperidone (37% and 27%, respectively). The majority of subjects (63%) experienced no side effects noted from the use of their psychopharmacologic medications.
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Al-Dewik N, Al-Jurf R, Styles M, Tahtamouni S, Alsharshani D, Alsharshani M, Ahmad AI, Khattab A, Al Rifai H, Walid Qoronfleh M. Overview and Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:3-42. [PMID: 32006355 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder generally manifesting in the first few years of life and tending to persist into adolescence and adulthood. It is characterized by deficits in communication and social interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. It is a disorder with multifactorial etiology. In this chapter, we will focus on the most important and common epidemiological studies, pathogenesis, screening, and diagnostic tools along with an explication of genetic testing in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Al-Dewik
- Clinical and Metabolic Genetics Section, Pediatrics Department, Hamad General Hospital (HGH), Women's Wellness and Research Center (WWRC) and Interim Translational Research Institute (iTRI), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar. .,College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, Qatar. .,Faculty of Health and Social Care Sciences, Kingston University, St. George's University of London, London, UK.
| | - Rana Al-Jurf
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Science, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Meghan Styles
- Health Profession Awareness Program, Health Facilities Development, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Sona Tahtamouni
- Child Development Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Dalal Alsharshani
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammed Alsharshani
- Diagnostic Genetics Division (DGD), Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (DLMP), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Amal I Ahmad
- Qatar Rehabilitation Institute (QRI), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Azhar Khattab
- Qatar Rehabilitation Institute (QRI), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
| | - Hilal Al Rifai
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Newborn Screening Unit, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - M Walid Qoronfleh
- Research and Policy Department, World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
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16
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Marlow M, Servili C, Tomlinson M. A review of screening tools for the identification of autism spectrum disorders and developmental delay in infants and young children: recommendations for use in low- and middle-income countries. Autism Res 2019; 12:176-199. [DOI: 10.1002/aur.2033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marguerite Marlow
- Department of Psychology; Stellenbosch University; Stellenbosch South Africa
| | - Chiara Servili
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse; World Health Organization; Geneva Switzerland
| | - Mark Tomlinson
- Department of Psychology; Stellenbosch University; Stellenbosch South Africa
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Divan G, Vajaratkar V, Cardozo P, Huzurbazar S, Verma M, Howarth E, Emsley R, Taylor C, Patel V, Green J. The Feasibility and Effectiveness of PASS Plus, A Lay Health Worker Delivered Comprehensive Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorders: Pilot RCT in a Rural Low and Middle Income Country Setting. Autism Res 2018; 12:328-339. [PMID: 30095230 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The treatment gap for autism globally is high. Our previous PASS intervention, delivered by community based lay health workers, showed effectiveness. This article reports the development and evaluation of a new "PASS 'Plus'" intervention in a rural population in India. Using formative research methods, we supplemented the PASS intervention with additional (Plus) modules to address autism comorbidities. This is the first time that a rigorous methodology has been used to evaluate autism symptom outcomes in a low and middle-income country setting. 40 parent-child dyads were recruited in a pilot randomized controlled trial against usual care (mean age 65 months (34 boys); n = 19 PASS Plus, n = 21 UC). 89% of intervention families partially or entirely completed the 12-session intervention. Intention to treat analysis showed a reduction in mean scores of autism symptom severity, though the confidence interval contains zero, (adjusted mean difference AMD -2.42 95% CI -7.75, 2.92; ES 0.22); large treatment effects on proximal outcomes of proportion of parent synchronous responses (AMD 0.35; 95% CI 0.18, 0.52; effect size ES 3.97) and proportion of child communication initiations with parent (AMD 0·17; 95% CI 0.03, 0.32; ES 1.02). Confidence intervals for effects on mutual shared attention (AMD 0.10; 95% CI -0.07, 0.27; ES 0.5) and co-morbid symptoms (AMD -9.0; 95% CI -24.26, 6.26; ES 0.32) contained zero. There were significant effects to improve parental mental health. PASS Plus shows good feasibility and adds to the evidence of the effectiveness of task sharing complex autism interventions to lay health workers in India. Autism Res 2019, 12: 328-339 © 2018 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: This article describes the development of a comprehensive, community-delivered, intervention for young children with autism, which combines a previously developed parent-mediated communication intervention with support for co-morbid problems like challenging behaviors and sensory sensitivities. The unique aspect of this intervention is that it can be delivered by community health workers, addressing the lack of specialists in low resource settings. Our study reports the encouraging findings of a pilot trial evaluating its feasibility and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gauri Divan
- Sangath, 451 (168) Bhaktar Waddo Succor Bardez, Goa, 403501, India
| | - Vivek Vajaratkar
- Sangath, 451 (168) Bhaktar Waddo Succor Bardez, Goa, 403501, India
| | - Percy Cardozo
- Sangath, 451 (168) Bhaktar Waddo Succor Bardez, Goa, 403501, India
| | - Shilpa Huzurbazar
- Sanwad 318-C, Bhende Galli, Shivaji Chowk, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Mamta Verma
- Sangath, 451 (168) Bhaktar Waddo Succor Bardez, Goa, 403501, India
| | - Elizabeth Howarth
- Centre for Biostatistics, School of Health of Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, 1.317 Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Richard Emsley
- Centre for Biostatistics, School of Health of Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, 1.317 Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Carol Taylor
- University of Manchester, Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, 3rd Floor Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Vikram Patel
- Harvard Medical School, Boston; Sangath, Bhaktar Waddo Succor Bardez, Goa, 403501, India
| | - Jonathan Green
- Centre for Biostatistics, School of Health of Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, 1.317 Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
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Brief Report: Using the Social Communication Questionnaire to Identify Young People Residing in Secure Children's Homes with Symptom Complexes Compatible with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 49:391-396. [PMID: 30019276 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3684-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1% of the general population. The prevalence of ASD, or symptom complexes compatible with ASD, amongst young people residing within Secure Children's Homes (SCH's) remains ill understood. There are critical implications for the resourcing and understanding of the management of young people with social/communication difficulties. This paper describes a preliminary investigation of the prevalence of ASD within SCH's in the UK. The Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) was completed with support workers for 113 adolescents admitted to two SCH's in England as a screen for ASD. The SCQ identified 15 (13.3%) young people with symptoms compatible with an ASD presentation; differences in gender, legal status and a history of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) are discussed.
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Moody EJ, Reyes N, Ledbetter C, Wiggins L, DiGuiseppi C, Alexander A, Jackson S, Lee LC, Levy SE, Rosenberg SA. Screening for Autism with the SRS and SCQ: Variations across Demographic, Developmental and Behavioral Factors in Preschool Children. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 47:3550-3561. [PMID: 28856480 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3255-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) and the Social Responsiveness Scales (SRS) are commonly used screeners for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Data from the Study to Explore Early Development were used to examine variations in the performance of these instruments by child characteristics and family demographics. For both instruments, specificity decreased as maternal education and family income decreased. Specificity was decreased with lower developmental functioning and higher behavior problems. This suggests that the false positive rates of the SRS and the SCQ are associated with child characteristics and family demographic factors. There is a need for ASD screeners that perform well across socioeconomic and child characteristics. Clinicians should be mindful of differential performance of these instruments in various groups of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J Moody
- Departments of Psychiatry and Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mailstop C234, 13121 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Nuri Reyes
- Departments of Psychiatry and Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mailstop C234, 13121 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Caroline Ledbetter
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lisa Wiggins
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Carolyn DiGuiseppi
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amira Alexander
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Office for State, Tribal, Local and Territorial Support, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Shardel Jackson
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Office for State, Tribal, Local and Territorial Support, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Li-Ching Lee
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Susan E Levy
- University of Pennsylvania at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Steven A Rosenberg
- Departments of Psychiatry and Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mailstop C234, 13121 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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20
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Bissell S, Wilde L, Richards C, Moss J, Oliver C. The behavioural phenotype of Potocki-Lupski syndrome: a cross-syndrome comparison. J Neurodev Disord 2018; 10:2. [PMID: 29329513 PMCID: PMC5795277 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-017-9221-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Potocki-Lupski syndrome (PTLS) and Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) are related genomic disorders, as duplication 17p11.2 (associated with PTLS) is the reciprocal recombination product of the SMS microdeletion. While SMS has a relatively well-delineated behavioural phenotype, the behavioural profile in PTLS is less well defined, despite purported associations with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the suggestion that some behaviours may be diametric to those seen in SMS. Methods Caregivers of individuals with PTLS (N = 34; M age = 12.43, SD = 6.78) completed online behavioural questionnaires, including the Challenging Behaviour Questionnaire (CBQ), the Activity Questionnaire (TAQ), the Repetitive Behaviour Questionnaire (RBQ), the Mood, Interest and Pleasure Questionnaire-Short Form (MIPQ-S) and the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ), which assesses behaviours associated with ASD. Individuals with PTLS were matched on age and adaptive functioning to individuals with SMS (N = 31; M age = 13.61, SD = 6.85) and individuals with idiopathic ASD (N = 33; M age = 12.04, SD = 5.85) from an existing dataset. Results Individuals with PTLS and SMS were less impaired than those with idiopathic ASD on the communication and reciprocal social interaction subscales of the SCQ, but neither syndrome group differed from idiopathic ASD on the restricted, repetitive and stereotyped behaviours subscale. On the repetitive behaviour measure, individuals with PTLS and idiopathic ASD scored higher than individuals with SMS on the compulsive behaviour subscale. Rates of self-injury and property destruction were significantly lower in PTLS and idiopathic ASD than in SMS. No between-syndrome differences were found in relation to overactivity or mood; however, impulsivity was greater in SMS than in PTLS. Conclusions Findings suggest some overlap in the behavioural phenotype of PTLS and features of ASD symptomatology; however, the overall profile of behaviours in PTLS appears to be divergent from both idiopathic ASD and SMS. Relative to idiopathic ASD, PTLS is not characterised by communication or social interaction deficits. However, restricted and repetitive behaviours were evident in PTLS, and these may be characterised specifically by compulsive behaviours. While several behavioural differences were identified between PTLS and SMS, there was little evidence of diametric behavioural phenotypes, particularly in relation to social behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey Bissell
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Lucy Wilde
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Caroline Richards
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Jo Moss
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.,Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, Alexandra House, 17-19 Queen Square, London, WC1N 3AR, UK
| | - Chris Oliver
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
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Mertens J, Zane ER, Neumeyer K, Grossman RB. How Anxious Do You Think I Am? Relationship Between State and Trait Anxiety in Children With and Without ASD During Social Tasks. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:3692-3703. [PMID: 28074356 PMCID: PMC5503798 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-2979-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often exhibit increased anxiety, even in non-stressful situations. We investigate general anxiousness (anxiety trait) and responses to stressful situations (anxiety state) in 22 adolescents with ASD and 32 typically developing controls. We measured trait anxiety with standardized self- and parent-reported questionnaires. We used a Biopac system to capture state anxiety via skin conductance responses, mean heart rate and heart rate variability during high- and low-anxiety tasks. Results reveal higher trait anxiety in adolescents with ASD (p < 0.05) and no group difference in state anxiety. Increased parent-reported trait anxiety may predict decreased state anxiety during high-stress conditions. Together, these findings suggest that higher trait anxiety may result in dampened physical responses to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mertens
- FACE Lab, Emerson College, 120 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02459, USA.
| | - E R Zane
- FACE Lab, Emerson College, 120 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02459, USA
| | - K Neumeyer
- FACE Lab, Emerson College, 120 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02459, USA
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Emerson College, Boston, MA, USA
| | - R B Grossman
- FACE Lab, Emerson College, 120 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02459, USA.
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Emerson College, Boston, MA, USA.
- Shriver Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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22
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Physiological Response to Social Evaluative Threat in Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 46:2992-3005. [PMID: 27318810 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-2842-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) was employed to study response to social evaluative threat in male adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD, n = 21) and typical development (n = 13). Participants wore a mobile electrocardiogram to collect heart rate data. There were significant group effects on respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), a measure of parasympathetic nervous system function, with lower values in ASD (F = 4.97). Bivariate correlations also showed a significant relationship between parent reports of social problems and RSA response to the TSST (r = -0.586). These findings suggest that autonomic dysregulation may contribute to social deficits in adolescents with ASD.
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Tint A, Palucka AM, Bradley E, Weiss JA, Lunsky Y. Correlates of Police Involvement Among Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:2639-2647. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3182-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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24
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Magiati I, Lerh JW, Hollocks MJ, Uljarevic M, Rodgers J, McConachie H, Ozsivadjian A, South M, Van Hecke A, Hardan A, Libove R, Leekam S, Simonoff E. The measurement properties of the spence children's anxiety scale-parent version in a large international pooled sample of young people with autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2017; 10:1629-1652. [DOI: 10.1002/aur.1809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Iliana Magiati
- Department of Psychology; National University of Singapore, 9 Arts Link; Singapore 117570
| | - Jian Wei Lerh
- Department of Psychology; National University of Singapore, 9 Arts Link; Singapore 117570
| | - Matthew J. Hollocks
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, DeCrespigny Park, Denmark Hill; London SE5 8AF UK
- Department of Clinical Psychology; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia; Norwich UK
| | - Mirko Uljarevic
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre; School of Psychological Science, La Trobe University; Victoria 3086 Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Long Pocket; Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | - Jacqui Rodgers
- Clinical Psychology; Ridley Building, Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University; Newcastle NE1 7RU UK
| | - Helen McConachie
- Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Sir James Spence Institute, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria Road; Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP UK
| | - Ann Ozsivadjian
- Evelina London Children's Hospital, St Thomas' Hospital; London UK
| | - Mikle South
- Department of Psychology; College of Family, Home and Social Sciences, Brigham Young University; Provo Utah
| | - Amy Van Hecke
- Department of Psychology; College of Arts and Sciences, Marquette University, Cramer Hall; Milwaukee Wisconsin 53201-1881
| | - Antonio Hardan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences; Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University; Stanford California 94305
| | - Robin Libove
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences; Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University; Stanford California 94305
| | - Susan Leekam
- Wales Autism Research Centre; School of Psychology, Cardiff University; Cardiff CF10 3AT UK
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Tint A, Weiss JA, Lunsky Y. Identifying the clinical needs and patterns of health service use of adolescent girls and women with autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2017; 10:1558-1566. [PMID: 28474493 DOI: 10.1002/aur.1806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Girls and women in the general population present with a distinct profile of clinical needs and use more associated health services compared to boys and men; however, research focused on health service use patterns among girls and women with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is limited. In the current study, caregivers of 61 adolescent girls and women with ASD and 223 boys and men with ASD completed an online survey. Descriptive analyses were conducted to better understand the clinical needs and associated service use patterns of girls and women with ASD. Sex/gender comparisons were made of individuals' clinical needs and service use. Adolescent girls and women with ASD had prevalent co-occurring mental and physical conditions and parents reported elevated levels of caregiver strain. Multiple service use was common across age groups, particularly among adolescent girls and women with intellectual disability. Overall, few sex/gender differences emerged, although a significantly greater proportion of girls and women accessed psychiatry and emergency department services as compared to boys and men. Though the current study is limited by its use of parent report and small sample size, it suggests that girls and women with ASD may share many of the same high clinical needs and patterns of services use as boys and men with ASD. Areas for future research are discussed to help ensure appropriate support is provided to this understudied population. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1558-1566. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ami Tint
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M3J 1P3.,Adult Neurodevelopmental Services, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5V 2B4
| | - Jonathan A Weiss
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M3J 1P3
| | - Yona Lunsky
- Adult Neurodevelopmental Services, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5V 2B4.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 1R8
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Aiello R, Ruble L, Esler A. National Study of School Psychologists’ Use of Evidence-Based Assessment in Autism Spectrum Disorder. JOURNAL OF APPLIED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/15377903.2016.1236307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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27
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Tsai PC, Harrington RA, Lung FW, Lee LC. Disparity in report of autism-related behaviors by social demographic characteristics: Findings from a community-based study in Taiwan. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2016; 21:540-551. [PMID: 27899712 DOI: 10.1177/1362361316677024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The Social Communication Questionnaire is one of the most commonly used screening tools for autism spectrum disorder. The Social Communication Questionnaire is a caregiver-reported questionnaire with 40 items based on questions from the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised. This study collected Social Communication Questionnaire data from a community-based, multi-stage case identification design epidemiologic study in one socioeconomically disadvantaged county in Taiwan. The Social Communication Questionnaire was distributed to 3034 school children, aged 6-8 years. Item prevalence results indicate males were reported to have more autism-related behaviors than females (higher prevalence on most items), in the whole study sample as well as in children meeting Social Communication Questionnaire clinical cut-offs (⩾15). Children whose biological fathers completed the Social Communication Questionnaire were reported to have more behavioral issues than children whose biological mothers were the respondent. Lower respondent education levels were associated with reports of clinically concerning autism-related behaviors. However, males were not at higher risk of meeting Social Communication Questionnaire clinical cut-offs than females in this study population. Findings from this study help to better understand reporting patterns on children's autism-related behaviors potentially due to social demographic characteristics and child sex, which may lead to improved identification of these behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Li-Ching Lee
- 1 Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
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28
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Chesnut SR, Wei T, Barnard-Brak L, Richman DM. A meta-analysis of the social communication questionnaire: Screening for autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2016; 21:920-928. [PMID: 27503464 DOI: 10.1177/1362361316660065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The current meta-analysis examines the previous research on the utility of the Social Communication Questionnaire as a screening instrument for autism spectrum disorder. Previously published reports have highlighted the inconsistencies between Social Communication Questionnaire-screening results and formal autism spectrum disorder diagnoses. The variations in accuracy resulted in some researchers questioning the validity of the Social Communication Questionnaire. This study systematically examined the accuracy of the Social Communication Questionnaire as a function of the methodological decisions made by researchers screening for autism spectrum disorder over the last 15 years. Findings from this study suggest that the Social Communication Questionnaire is an acceptable screening instrument for autism spectrum disorder (area under the curve = 0.885). Variations in methodological decisions, however, greatly influenced the accuracy of the Social Communication Questionnaire in screening for autism spectrum disorder. Of these methodological variations, using the Current instead of the Lifetime version of the Social Communication Questionnaire resulted in the largest detrimental effect ( d = -3.898), followed by using the Social Communication Questionnaire with individuals younger than 4 years of age ( d = -2.924) and relying upon convenience samples ( d = -4.828 for clinical samples, -2.734 for convenience samples, and -1.422 for community samples). Directions for future research and implications for using the Social Communication Questionnaire to screen for autism spectrum disorder are discussed.
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29
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Kim JH, Sunwoo HJ, Park SB, Noh DH, Jung YK, Cho IH, Cho SC, Kim BN, Shin MS, Kim JW, Park TW, Son JW, Chung US, Yoo HJ. A Validation Study of the Korean Version of Social Communication Questionnaire. Soa Chongsonyon Chongsin Uihak 2015. [DOI: 10.5765/jkacap.2015.26.3.197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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30
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Shared and Divergent Auditory and Tactile Processing in Children with Autism and Children with Sensory Processing Dysfunction Relative to Typically Developing Peers. J Int Neuropsychol Soc 2015; 21:444-54. [PMID: 26145730 DOI: 10.1017/s1355617715000387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare sensory processing in typically developing children (TDC), children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and those with sensory processing dysfunction (SPD) in the absence of an ASD. Performance-based measures of auditory and tactile processing were compared between male children ages 8-12 years assigned to an ASD (N=20), SPD (N=15), or TDC group (N=19). Both the SPD and ASD groups were impaired relative to the TDC group on a performance-based measure of tactile processing (right-handed graphesthesia). In contrast, only the ASD group showed significant impairment on an auditory processing index assessing dichotic listening, temporal patterning, and auditory discrimination. Furthermore, this impaired auditory processing was associated with parent-rated communication skills for both the ASD group and the combined study sample. No significant group differences were detected on measures of left-handed graphesthesia, tactile sensitivity, or form discrimination; however, more participants in the SPD group demonstrated a higher tactile detection threshold (60%) compared to the TDC (26.7%) and ASD groups (35%). This study provides support for use of performance-based measures in the assessment of children with ASD and SPD and highlights the need to better understand how sensory processing affects the higher order cognitive abilities associated with ASD, such as verbal and non-verbal communication, regardless of diagnostic classification.
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Weiss JA, Tint A, Paquette-Smith M, Lunsky Y. Perceived self-efficacy in parents of adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2015; 20:425-34. [PMID: 26019305 DOI: 10.1177/1362361315586292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Many parents of adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder experience difficulty accessing appropriate services for their children, and may report low levels of parent self-efficacy. In an effort to identify the factors that contribute to the difficulties these families face, this study examined the role of demographic, systemic, and clinical need variables as they relate to parents' experience of self-efficacy. Participants included 324 parents of individuals with autism spectrum disorder, 12-25 years of age. Results suggest that parent self-efficacy is related to a number of variables and not simply a child's clinical situation, including child age, parent immigrant status, barriers to service access, and caregiver burden. Given the crucial role that parents often play in the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan, it is important that service providers support the efforts of parents who provide and access care for their children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yona Lunsky
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada
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Lake JK, Vogan V, Sawyer A, Weiss JA, Lunsky Y. Psychotropic medication use among adolescents and young adults with an autism spectrum disorder: parent views about medication use and healthcare services. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2015; 25:260-8. [PMID: 25803636 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2014.0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Psychotropic medications are frequently used to treat mental health and behavioral issues in adolescents and adults with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although parents of individuals with ASD frequently take on medication management for their child, there is limited literature on parent perspectives of their child's medication use or their views about the healthcare services they receive, particularly in adulthood. The current study examined and compared parents of adolescents and of young adults with ASD regarding their child's psychotropic medication use and their views about healthcare services. METHODS One hundred parents of adolescents and young adults with ASD (ages 12-30 years) completed an online survey about their experience with their child's healthcare services and medication use. RESULTS Parents of young adults were less likely to use nonpharmacological services before using a psychotropic medication than were parents of adolescents. Parents of young adults were also less likely to believe that their prescribing healthcare provider had adequate expertise in ASD, and were less satisfied with how their prescriber monitored their child's medication use. CONCLUSION Findings highlight the need to build capacity among healthcare providers supporting individuals with ASD as they transition into adulthood. There is also a need for improved medication monitoring and increased awareness of the different mental health challenges that individuals with ASD encounter as they age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna K Lake
- 1 Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Dual Diagnosis Service , Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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A Review of Level 2 Parent-Report Instruments Used to Screen Children Aged 1.5–5 for Autism: A Meta-Analytic Update. J Autism Dev Disord 2015; 45:2519-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-015-2419-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Esler AN, Ruble LA. DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder With Implications for School Psychologists. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/21683603.2014.890148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Coster WJ, Kramer JM, Tian F, Dooley M, Liljenquist K, Kao YC, Ni P. Evaluating the appropriateness of a new computer-administered measure of adaptive function for children and youth with autism spectrum disorders. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2015; 20:14-25. [PMID: 25630376 DOI: 10.1177/1362361314564473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer Adaptive Test is an alternative method for describing the adaptive function of children and youth with disabilities using a computer-administered assessment. This study evaluated the performance of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer Adaptive Test with a national sample of children and youth with autism spectrum disorders aged 3-21 years. Parents (n = 365) completed an online survey that included demographics, the Social Communication Questionnaire, and the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer Adaptive Test Social/Cognitive, Daily Activities, and Responsibility domains. Item response theory analysis confirmed items in each domain fit a unidimensional model and few items misfit. A large number of items in the Social/Cognitive domain showed differential item functioning, indicating a unique order of item difficulty in this population in this domain. Differences in item difficulty estimates were addressed through a parameter linking (equating) process. Simulations supported the accuracy and precision of the Computer Adaptive Test. Results suggest that the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer Adaptive Test, as modified for autism spectrum disorder, is an efficient and sound assessment for this population.
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KAO YINGCHIA, KRAMER JESSICAM, LILJENQUIST KENDRA, COSTER WENDYJ. Association between impairment, function, and daily life task management in children and adolescents with autism. Dev Med Child Neurol 2015; 57:68-74. [PMID: 25312547 PMCID: PMC4298704 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM This cross-sectional study examined whether impairments or functional skills are associated with the level of responsibility for life tasks for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). METHOD Parents of 263 children and adolescents with ASDs (215 males; 48 females; mean age 12y 6mo [SD 4y 6mo], range 3-21y) completed an online survey that included the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer Adaptive Test - Autism Spectrum Disorders (PEDI-CAT-ASD) Daily Activities, Social/Cognitive, and Responsibility domains, a demographic questionnaire, and the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) Current. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Framework guided the selection of model variables. We used hierarchical multiple regression to examine the relationship between impairment and functional skill predictor variables and the outcome variable, Responsibility. Age was entered in step 1 to control for the impact of development. SCQ Current, IQ, and remaining PEDI-CAT-ASD domains were then entered in step 2. RESULTS After controlling for age, the model showed that step 2 predictor variables representing both impairments and functional skill improved the model (p<0.001). All variables except the SCQ score were significant predictors of Responsibility. The variance explained by the Daily Activities (2.7%) and Social/Cognitive (4.8%) domain scores was greater than IQ (0.3%). INTERPRETATION The functional skills of Daily Activities and Social/Cognitive domains were more strongly associated with the management of life tasks than impairments after controlling for age.
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Affiliation(s)
- YING-CHIA KAO
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - JESSICA M KRAMER
- Department of Occupational Therapy and ScD Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - KENDRA LILJENQUIST
- ScD Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - WENDY J COSTER
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Boston University, Boston, MA
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Wei T, Chesnut SR, Barnard-Brak L, Richman D. Psychometric Analysis of the Social Communication Questionnaire Using an Item-Response Theory Framework: Implications for the Use of the Lifetime and Current Forms. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10862-014-9468-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Differentiation between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder by the social communication questionnaire. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 6:221-9. [PMID: 24966019 DOI: 10.1007/s12402-014-0147-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The differentiation of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) poses a clinical challenge. In children, overlap of psychopathological and cognitive findings has been found for both disorders. In addition, some children suffer from both disorders. The Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) is a screening instrument for ASD symptoms which indicates the presence of ASD in a rapid and economic way. However, validity to differentiate ASD and ADHD as differential or comorbid diagnoses has not been studied. Here, the differential validity was compared in groups of children with ASD, ADHD, ASD + ADHD, and typically developing (TD) children and IQ > 70. ROC analyses indicated an excellent differentiation between ASD and TD with ROC-AUC = .941 and between ASD + ADHD with ROC-AUC = .993. The optimal cutoff was below the originally recommended one of 15. The differentiation between children with ASD with (ROC-AUC = .982) or without ADHD (ROC-AUC = .864) and ADHD alone also showed acceptable differential validity, and here, the optimal cutoff corresponded to the recommended. Taken together, the SCQ can be recommended as a screening instrument for a first differentiation between children with ASD and typically developing children as well as children with ADHD.
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A comparison of social cognitive profiles in children with autism spectrum disorders and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a matter of quantitative but not qualitative difference? J Autism Dev Disord 2013; 43:1157-70. [PMID: 23015110 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-012-1657-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare social cognitive profiles of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and ADHD. Participants diagnosed with an ASD (n = 137) were compared to participants with ADHD (n = 436) on tests of facial and vocal affect recognition, social judgment and problem-solving, and parent- and teacher-report of social functioning. Both groups performed significantly worse than the normative sample on all measures. Although the ASD group had more severe deficits, the pattern of deficits was surprisingly similar between groups, suggesting that social cognitive deficit patterns may be more similar in ASD and ADHD than previously thought. Thus, like those with ASDs, individuals with ADHD may also need to be routinely considered for treatments targeting social skills.
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Kuo MH, Orsmond GI, Coster WJ, Cohn ES. Media use among adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2013; 18:914-23. [PMID: 24142797 DOI: 10.1177/1362361313497832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study explores how adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) use media, and the factors associated with their media use. A total of 91 adolescents with ASD and their parents completed mail-based surveys. In all, 78% of the adolescents with ASD watched television (approximately 2 h/day), and 98% used computers (approximately 5 h/day) on any given day. They most frequently watched cartoons, played computer or video games that involved shooting, and visited websites that contained information on video games. Adolescents with ASD who watched television with parents reported more positive parent-child relationships. Adolescents with ASD who visited social networking websites or received emails from friends reported more positive friendships. The findings help us understand media-use habits of adolescents with ASD and suggest areas for future research.
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Johnson BP, Phillips JG, Papadopoulos N, Fielding J, Tonge B, Rinehart NJ. Understanding macrographia in children with autism spectrum disorders. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2013; 34:2917-2926. [PMID: 23816627 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2013.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2013] [Revised: 06/02/2013] [Accepted: 06/03/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
It has been consistently reported that children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) show considerable handwriting difficulties, specifically relating to accurate and consistent letter formation, and maintaining appropriate letter size. The aim of this study was to investigate the underlying factors that contribute to these difficulties, specifically relating to motor control. We examined the integrity of fundamental handwriting movements and contributions of neuromotor noise in 26 children with ASD aged 8-13 years (IQ>75), and 17 typically developing controls. Children wrote a series of four cursive letter l's using a graphics tablet and stylus. Children with ASD had significantly larger stroke height and width, more variable movement trajectory, and higher movement velocities. The absolute level of neuromotor noise in the velocity profiles, as measured by power spectral density analysis, was significantly higher in children with ASD; relatively higher neuromotor noise was found in bands >3 Hz. Our findings suggest that significant instability of fundamental handwriting movements, in combination with atypical biomechanical strategies, contribute to larger and less consistent handwriting in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth P Johnson
- School of Psychology and Psychiatry, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
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Johnson B, Rinehart N, White O, Millist L, Fielding J. Saccade adaptation in autism and Asperger’s disorder. Neuroscience 2013; 243:76-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2012] [Revised: 03/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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O'Haire ME, McKenzie SJ, Beck AM, Slaughter V. Social behaviors increase in children with autism in the presence of animals compared to toys. PLoS One 2013; 8:e57010. [PMID: 23468902 PMCID: PMC3584132 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0057010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2012] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous research has demonstrated the capacity of animal presence to stimulate social interaction among humans. The purpose of this study was to examine the interactions of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with an adult and their typically-developing peers in the presence of animals (two guinea pigs) compared to toys. Methods Ninety-nine children from 15 classrooms in 4 schools met the inclusion criteria and participated in groups of three (1 child with ASD and 2 typically-developing peers). Each group was video-recorded during three 10-minute, free-play sessions with toys and three 10-minute, free-play sessions with two guinea pigs. Two blinded observers coded the behavior of children with ASD and their peers. To account for the nested study design, data were analyzed using hierarchical generalized linear modeling. Results Participants with ASD demonstrated more social approach behaviors (including talking, looking at faces, and making tactile contact) and received more social approaches from their peers in the presence of animals compared to toys. They also displayed more prosocial behaviors and positive affect (i.e., smiling and laughing) as well as less self-focused behaviors and negative affect (i.e., frowning, crying, and whining) in the presence of animals compared to toys. Conclusions These results suggest that the presence of an animal can significantly increase positive social behaviors among children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marguerite E O'Haire
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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Schanding GT, Nowell KP, Goin-Kochel RP. Utility of the social communication questionnaire-current and social responsiveness scale as teacher-report screening tools for autism spectrum disorders. J Autism Dev Disord 2013; 42:1705-16. [PMID: 22143742 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-011-1412-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Limited research exists regarding the role of teachers in screening for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The current study examined the use of the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) and Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) as completed by parents and teachers about school-age children from the Simons Simplex Collection. Using the recommended cutoff scores in the manuals and extant literature, the teacher-completed SCQ and SRS yielded lower sensitivity and specificity values than would be desirable; however, lowering the cutoff scores on both instruments improved sensitivity and specificity to more adequate levels for screening purposes. Using the adjusted cutoff scores, the SRS teacher form appears to be a slightly better screener than the SCQ. Implications and limitations are discussed, as well as areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Thomas Schanding
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA.
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Johnson BP, Rinehart NJ, Papadopoulos N, Tonge B, Millist L, White O, Fielding J. A closer look at visually guided saccades in autism and Asperger's disorder. Front Integr Neurosci 2012; 6:99. [PMID: 23162442 PMCID: PMC3491344 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2012.00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 10/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor impairments have been found to be a significant clinical feature associated with autism and Asperger’s disorder (AD) in addition to core symptoms of communication and social cognition deficits. Motor deficits in high-functioning autism (HFA) and AD may differentiate these disorders, particularly with respect to the role of the cerebellum in motor functioning. Current neuroimaging and behavioral evidence suggests greater disruption of the cerebellum in HFA than AD. Investigations of ocular motor functioning have previously been used in clinical populations to assess the integrity of the cerebellar networks, through examination of saccade accuracy and the integrity of saccade dynamics. Previous investigations of visually guided saccades in HFA and AD have only assessed basic saccade metrics, such as latency, amplitude, and gain, as well as peak velocity. We used a simple visually guided saccade paradigm to further characterize the profile of visually guided saccade metrics and dynamics in HFA and AD. It was found that children with HFA, but not AD, were more inaccurate across both small (5°) and large (10°) target amplitudes, and final eye position was hypometric at 10°. These findings suggest greater functional disturbance of the cerebellum in HFA than AD, and suggest fundamental difficulties with visual error monitoring in HFA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth P Johnson
- Centre for Developmental Psychiatry and Psychology, School of Psychology and Psychiatry, Monash University Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Kuo MH, Orsmond GI, Cohn ES, Coster WJ. Friendship characteristics and activity patterns of adolescents with an autism spectrum disorder. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2011; 17:481-500. [PMID: 22087043 DOI: 10.1177/1362361311416380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study compared perceptions of adolescents' friendships between adolescents with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents, examined factors associated with friendship qualities, and investigated the adolescents' reports on the activities they did with friends and how activity patterns differed by gender. Ninety-one adolescents with an ASD and their parents completed mail-based surveys during the summer months. Adolescents with an ASD identified more friends than did their parents, but they agreed on the friends' characteristics. About half of the adolescents spent an average of 4 hours per day with friends during the summer months. Male adolescents with an ASD most frequently played video games with friends, whereas females most frequently had conversations with friends. The findings suggest that adolescents with an ASD and their parents identify different peers as the adolescent's friends. The findings also reveal similarities and differences in friendships between adolescents with an ASD and typically developing adolescents.
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Maljaars J, Noens I, Scholte E, van Berckelaer-Onnes I. Evaluation of the criterion and convergent validity of the Diagnostic Interview for Social and Communication Disorders in young and low-functioning children. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2011; 16:487-97. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361311402857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autistic features: EEG evidence for comorbid disorders. Psychiatry Res 2011; 185:225-31. [PMID: 20580838 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2009.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2008] [Revised: 09/08/2009] [Accepted: 09/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) is the most common psychiatric disorder of childhood, although AD/HD is rarely the only diagnosis given to these children. Within the literature there is some debate as to whether it is valid to diagnose AD/HD with autism as a comorbid disorder, since the present diagnostic systems exclude the diagnosis of both disorders in the same child. The aim of this study was to determine whether electroencephalography (EEG) differences exist between two groups of children diagnosed with AD/HD, one scoring high (AD/HD+) and one scoring low (AD/HD-) on a measure of autism. The EEG was recorded during an eyes-closed resting condition from 19 electrodes, and Fourier transformed to provide absolute and relative power estimates in delta, theta, alpha and beta bands. Compared to age- and sex-matched controls, the AD/HD- group had increased absolute power in all frequency bands, somewhat higher relative theta activity and decreased relative delta. In comparison to the AD/HD- group, patients with autistic features (AD/HD+) had a number of qualitative differences in the beta and theta bands. These results indicate the presence of two comorbid conditions in the AD/HD+ group, which suggests that AD/HD and autism can occur in the same individual.
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Oosterling I, Rommelse N, de Jonge M, van der Gaag RJ, Swinkels S, Roos S, Visser J, Buitelaar J. How useful is the Social Communication Questionnaire in toddlers at risk of autism spectrum disorder? J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2010; 51:1260-8. [PMID: 20626528 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7610.2010.02246.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) is a screening instrument with established validity against the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) in children aged 4 years and older. Indices of diagnostic accuracy have been shown to be strong in school-aged samples; however, relatively little is known about the performance of the SCQ in toddlers at risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS This study replicates and extends previous research by Corsello et al. (2007) in a comparatively large (N = 208), substantially younger (20-40 months) sample of children at high risk of ASD. The usefulness of the SCQ as a second-level screening instrument with different cut-off scores was evaluated in relation to IQ, age, and type of ASD diagnosis. The use of the SCQ as compared to the ADI-R was evaluated against clinical diagnosis, both alone and in combination with the ADOS. RESULTS The SCQ with different cut-offs consistently showed an unsatisfactory balance between sensitivity and specificity in screening for ASD in high-risk toddlers, with only a few exceptions for specific age, IQ, or diagnostic groups. Even though the SCQ and ADI-R were highly correlated, diagnostic agreement with the best evidence clinical diagnosis was poor for both measures. The ADOS used alone consistently had the highest predictive value. For autism versus not-autism, the combined SCQ and ADOS performed as well as the ADOS alone and notably better than the combination ADI-R and ADOS. CONCLUSIONS The SCQ is likely to result in a number of false-positive findings, particularly in children with autism symptomatology, and the balance between sensitivity and specificity is poor. The ADOS should be considered the most valid and reliable diagnostic instrument in these very young at-risk children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Oosterling
- Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Centre, Reinier Postlaan 12, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Norris M, Lecavalier L. Screening accuracy of Level 2 autism spectrum disorder rating scales. A review of selected instruments. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2010; 14:263-84. [PMID: 20591956 DOI: 10.1177/1362361309348071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this review was to examine the state of Level 2, caregiver-completed rating scales for the screening of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) in individuals above the age of three years. We focused on screening accuracy and paid particular attention to comparison groups. Inclusion criteria required that scales be developed post ICD-10, be ASD-specific, and have published evidence of diagnostic validity in peer-reviewed journals. The five scales reviewed were: the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ), Gilliam Autism Rating Scale/Gilliam Autism Rating Scale-Second Edition (GARS/GARS-2), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ), and Asperger Syndrome Diagnostic Scale (ASDS). Twenty total studies were located, most examining the SCQ. Research on the other scales was limited. Comparisons between scales were few and available evidence of diagnostic validity is scarce for certain subpopulations (e.g., lower functioning individuals, PDDNOS). Overall, the SCQ performed well, the SRS and ASSQ showed promise, and the GARS/GARS-2 and ASDS demonstrated poor sensitivity. This review indicates that Level 2 ASD caregiver-completed rating scales are in need of much more scientific scrutiny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Norris
- Nisonger Center and Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
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