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Atherton G, Hathaway R, Visuri I, Cross L. A critical hit: Dungeons and Dragons as a buff for autistic people. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024:13623613241275260. [PMID: 39166536 DOI: 10.1177/13623613241275260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) are popular hobbies that may offer specific social benefits for autistic people. This study investigated the ability of TTRPGs to provide a safe space where autistic adults could develop relationships with other autistic adults while engaging in character and world-building. A group of eight autistic adults were split into two groups and taken through a short-form online Dungeons and Dragons campaign over 6 weeks run by one of the researchers. The researcher then led a series of individual semi-structured interviews discussing how participants felt interacting in and out of the TTRPG. Several key themes were identified as important aspects of why autistic people could benefit from such an environment. Analysis showed that while real-life interactions could be challenging, in TTRPG play, they felt they experienced significantly fewer struggles. Results suggested that TTRPGs can provide a safe space environment where autistic adults can engage in productive social interactions with like-minded individuals. It also may allow autistic participants to experience 'bleed' or the ability to take on a new character that changes the way they feel about themselves outside of the game. Future directions for this work are discussed.
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Douglas S, Sedgewick F. Experiences of interpersonal victimization and abuse among autistic people. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 28:1732-1745. [PMID: 37842827 PMCID: PMC11191373 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231205630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT What do we already know?Autistic people are more likely to have negative life experiences than non-autistic people, from bullying and ostracization, to being victims of crime, to unemployment and homelessness. This includes being victims of intimate partner violence, sexual assault and domestic abuse. Quantitative work has suggested that as many as 90% of autistic people experience these forms of abuse in some form during their lives, but there is little work asking them to talk about harmful relationships in their own words.What does this article add?This article reports on interviews with 24 autistic adults about their experiences of being victims of intimate partner violence, sexual assault and/or domestic abuse. Some of the themes which came from these interviews are shared with non-autistic victims, but others appeared unique to autistic people. One of these was evidence for unique autism-related vulnerabilities, as well as the impact the abuse had on their relationships long term. Participants also talked about how the sex and relationship education they had received had inadequately prepared them for adult relationships, and how this had contributed to their struggle to recognize and react to abusive behaviour.Implications for practice, research and policyPolicies around intimate partner violence and sexual assault need to be updated to account for the different ways in which neurodivergent people (people whose brains process information differently from the majority) may discuss their experiences, rather than looking for 'standard narratives' as an indicator of a need for support. Relationship and sex education should be tailored for autistic young people to help them recognize abusive behaviours, and include how to respond to these safely. We recommend that future research tries to focus specifically on the abuse experiences of autistic men, non-binary and trans people, who have been under-represented in studies to date. In addition, much less is known about the abuse experiences of autistic people of colour or autistic people with intellectual disabilities, who also need to be actively included in these discussions.
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Chen HB, Warrington R, Mandy W, Yang F, Tang Y, Yang JJ, Li A, Lin YQ, Xu MZ, Jia FJ, Hou CL. Validation of the developmental, dimensional and diagnostic interview -short version (3Di-sv) for diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in Chinese children. Asian J Psychiatr 2023; 88:103733. [PMID: 37597345 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2023.103733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric features of the Chinese version of the developmental dimensional diagnostic interview-short version (3Di-sv). A total sample of 138 children including 79 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and 59 typically developing children completed the 3Di-sv interview. The Chinese version of the 3Di-sv has a good internal consistency (0.94). Test-retest analysis confirmed the instrument's time stability (0.89). The instrument's concurrent validity with the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) and clinical diagnosis was verified; the correlation between total scores was 0.72, 0.82 and 0.90, respectively. The 3Di-sv significantly distinguished between autistic children and non-autistic children in every area of autism symptoms. Optimal cutoffs were derived using receiver operating characteristics curves. Using clinical diagnosis as criterion, overall sensitivity was 98 % and specificity was 90 %. The study determined that the Chinese version of 3Di-sv can well distinguish autistic children from typically developing children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Bei Chen
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China; Guangdong Mental Health Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Richard Warrington
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, UCL, London, UK
| | - William Mandy
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, UCL, London, UK
| | - Fan Yang
- Guangdong Mental Health Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Yi Tang
- Guangdong Mental Health Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Jing-Jing Yang
- Guangdong Mental Health Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Ai Li
- Shantou University Mental Health Center, Shantou, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Yong-Qiang Lin
- Guangdong Mental Health Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Ming-Zhi Xu
- Guangdong Mental Health Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Fu-Jun Jia
- Guangdong Mental Health Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Cai-Lan Hou
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China; Guangdong Mental Health Center, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, PR China.
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Tan R, Ashwin C. Validation of the English version of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient in an English-speaking Singaporean sample. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291726. [PMID: 37768932 PMCID: PMC10538708 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ) measures the degree of autistic traits in clinical and non-clinical samples and has been validated in various countries and languages. However, the AQ has not been validated in Singapore, an Asian country whose population speaks predominantly English. Although previous validation studies have examined the distribution of scores, internal consistency, test-retest reliability and construct, convergent and discriminant validities in Asian countries using translated versions of the AQ and generally shown a suitable structure of the AQ, other studies testing cultural differences of the AQ have provided inconsistent results about whether differences exist in scores between Western and Asian samples. Additionally, while prior literature has consistently documented sex differences in AQ scores, findings about the relationship between personality traits and friendship quality with autistic traits have been mixed. The aim of the current study was to validate the psychometric properties of the original English AQ in a non-clinical Singaporean sample and compare their mean AQ scores to previous Western samples. In this study, psychometric properties of the original English AQ were assessed in 113 Singaporean adults (47M/66F; Mean age = 37.78; SD = 14.52) with no clinical diagnoses. They completed the AQ, the Friendship Questionnaire (FQ) and the short Big Five Inventory, with a subsample completing the AQ twice within three to six months. Results showed that AQ scores were normally distributed and the AQ had satisfactory internal consistency and test-retest reliability and it demonstrated construct, convergent and discriminant validities. Higher AQ scores were related to lower friendship quality and extraversion and higher neuroticism. The mean AQ scores of the Singaporean sample did not differ to that reported in original British sample. Together, present findings showed the original English AQ to be reliable for measuring the degree of autistic traits in a non-clinical Singaporean sample, producing comparable AQ scores and showing the same relationships to other social and personality measures and the same sex differences as has been reported in English samples. This supports the use of the AQ in Singapore for clinical and research purposes and suggests that the measurement of autistic traits in some Asian cultures is comparable to that reported in Western cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Tan
- Centre for Applied Autism Research, Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Ashwin
- Centre for Applied Autism Research, Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
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Tchanturia K, Croft P, Holetic V, Webb J, Dapelo MM. Positive communication workshops: are they useful for treatment programmes for anorexia nervosa? Front Psychol 2023; 14:1234928. [PMID: 37645066 PMCID: PMC10461805 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1234928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Social isolation, loneliness and difficulties in relationships are often described as a core feature of eating disorders. Based on the experimental research, we have designed one-off workshops for patients in inpatients and day care services and evaluated its acceptability and effectiveness using feedback questionnaires. Methods This naturalistic project is an evaluation of multiple positive communication workshops. Forty-one participants completed workshop questionnaires, which were provided immediately at the beginning and end of the workshop, including feedback on these one-off groups. The workshops consisted of educational and experiential components. The questionnaire outcomes were evaluated by independent researchers. Results All participants were female adults with a mean age of 33 (12.2) and a diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa (AN; either restrictive or binge-purge subtype). Post-workshop questionnaires showed large effect sizes in the improvement of understanding the importance and confidence in using positive communication strategies. Discussion Addressing social communication difficulties in eating disorder treatment programmes adds valuable dimensions to these symptom-based treatments in both inpatient settings and day services, and may provide broader benefits in overall social functioning in patients with AN. Conclusion Brief one-off workshops targeting social functioning for patients with eating disorders might be useful complementary input for treatment programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Tchanturia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Philippa Croft
- Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Holetic
- Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Webb
- Eating Disorders National Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marcela Marin Dapelo
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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Dekker LP, van der Vegt EJM, Louwerse A, Visser K, van der Ende J, Maras A, Verhulst FC, Greaves-Lord K. Complementing or Congruent? Desired Characteristics in a Friend and Romantic Partner in Autistic versus Typically Developing Male Adolescents. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:1153-1167. [PMID: 36241943 PMCID: PMC10102130 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02444-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Ideal friend and romantic partner characteristics related to self-perceived characteristics have been investigated in typically developing (TD) individuals, but not in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Considering the autistic symptoms and challenges, investigating these concepts in autistic individuals is relevant. Given the lack of consensus, identity-first ("autistic person") and person-first ("person with autism") language are mixed throughout, to cover all preferences. This study explored (1) the association between self-perceived characteristics and desires in a friend/romantic partner, as well as (2) compare two groups (ASD and TD) in their desires for a friend/romantic partner. Two matched groups (ASD and TD) of 38 male adolescents (age 14-19 years) reported on the desire for nine characteristics (i.e., funny, popular, nice, cool, smart, trustworthy, good looking, similar interests, and being rich) in a friend/partner, and to what extent they felt they themselves possessed seven characteristics (i.e., funny, popular, nice, cool, smart, trustworthy, and good looking). Results showed both groups sought a friend and partner similar to themselves on intrinsic characteristics (e.g., trustworthiness), but less similar on extrinsic and social status characteristics (e.g., being less cool and popular). Particularly intrinsic characteristics, more than extrinsic and social status characteristics, were valued in both partners and friends, regardless of group. No significant differences were found between groups concerning to what extent characteristics were desired. Overall, adolescents with ASD desire similar characteristics as TD adolescents in their potential romantic partners and friends. There is some indication that the match between self-perception and desired characteristics is different.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda P Dekker
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Burg. Oudlaan 50, Room T13-24, 3000 DR, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Yulius, Organization for Mental Health, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | - Anneke Louwerse
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Yulius, Organization for Mental Health, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kirsten Visser
- Yulius, Organization for Mental Health, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Youz Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Team Sarr Autism Expertise Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan van der Ende
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Athanasios Maras
- Yulius, Organization for Mental Health, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank C Verhulst
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Center, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kirstin Greaves-Lord
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Yulius, Organization for Mental Health, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Autism Team Northern-Netherlands of Jonx, Department of (Youth) Mental Health and Autism, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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McFayden TC, Putnam O, Grzadzinski R, Harrop C. Sex Differences in the Developmental Trajectories of Autism Spectrum Disorder. CURRENT DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS REPORTS 2023; 10:80-91. [PMID: 37635854 PMCID: PMC10457022 DOI: 10.1007/s40474-023-00270-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Females and males are disproportionately diagnosed with autism, a sex difference that has historically represented this neurodevelopmental condition. The current review examines lifespan developmental trajectories of autism based on sex to elucidate behavioral phenotypic differences that may contribute to differential rates of diagnosis. Recent Findings We review sex differences in diagnostic criteria: social communication and restricted interests/repetitive behaviors (RRBs). Results suggest RRBs are more indicative of a diagnosis in males, whereas social differences are more indicative of a diagnosis in females. Factors contributing to a later diagnosis in females include social strengths (camouflaging) and diagnostic overshadowing. Summary Sex differences in diagnostic criteria may contribute to differential rates of identification in males and females. Sex differences are most pronounced when assessing naturalistic social communication instead of reliance on standardized measure. Numerous future directions are identified including increasing samples of sub-threshold autistic females and evaluating longitudinal sex differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler C. McFayden
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Orla Putnam
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Rebecca Grzadzinski
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Clare Harrop
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
- TEACCH Autism Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
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Differences in emotional contagion, interpersonal relationships and social rewards in males and females: examining the links with primary and secondary psychopathic traits. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-023-04236-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
AbstractIndividuals with psychopathic traits display low empathy and as a result they have difficulties maintaining meaningful relationships. Emotional contagion, the ability to automatically mimic others’ emotional states (facial expressions, movements), is a precursor of empathy that contributes to relationship quality and is impaired in individuals with psychopathic traits. The current study examines sex differences in primary and secondary psychopathic traits in a sample of 389 participants (Mage = 33.61; 241 females) and the association of these personality traits with romantic and peer relationships, susceptibility to negative (sadness, fear, anger) and positive (happiness, love) emotional contagion and social motivation factors. Hierarchical multiple regressions run separately in male and female participants, revealed different factors contribute to the maintenance of primary and secondary psychopathic traits. Findings infer different difficulties in social functioning (forming and maintaining relationships), regulating emotions, empathizing via emotional contagion, and motivating factors to engage socially, relate to primary and secondary traits, as well as differences in men and women. This research reflects the importance of investigating psychopathic traits heterogeneously in males and females, to better inform prevention efforts focused on hindering the development and maintenance of these personality traits.
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Toseeb U, Asbury K. A longitudinal study of the mental health of autistic children and adolescents and their parents during COVID-19: Part 1, quantitative findings. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:105-116. [PMID: 35669991 PMCID: PMC9805925 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221082715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Autistic children and adolescents, and their parents/carers, tend to experience more symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to those with other special educational needs and disabilities. The rapid change in society as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to have disproportionately affected autistic young people and their parents/carers. We investigated how the mental health of autistic young people, and their parents/carers, developed during the first lockdown in the United Kingdom and how it changed once schools fully reopened for face-to-face teaching approximately 6 months later. Parents/carers completed online standardised questionnaires about their own and their child's mental health at four time points between March 2020 and October 2020. We found that, throughout this period, autistic young people experienced more symptoms of anxiety and depression compared to those with other special educational needs and disabilities. Anxiety levels decreased as lockdown progressed and schools reopened for face-to-face teaching but only for those with other special educational needs and disabilities. For autistic young people, both anxiety and depression symptoms remained high throughout. There were no differences in the mental health of parents/carers of autistic children compared to those with other special educational needs and disabilities. These findings suggest that the mental health of autistic children and adolescents is likely to have been disproportionately affected during and after the first lockdown in the United Kingdom. In the second part of this article (Asbury & Toseeb, 2022), we attempt to explain these trends using qualitative data provided by parents during the same period.
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Chan DV, Doran JD, Galobardi OD. Beyond Friendship: The Spectrum of Social Participation of Autistic Adults. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:424-437. [PMID: 35079929 PMCID: PMC8788910 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05441-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Difficulties with social interactions and communication that characterize autism persist in adulthood. While social participation in adulthood is often marked by social isolation and limited close friendships, this qualitative study describes the range of social participation activities and community contacts, from acquaintances to close relationships, that contributed to connection from the perspective of 40 autistic adults. Qualitative data from interviews around social and community involvement were analyzed and revealed five main contexts where social participation occurred: vocational contexts, neighborhoods, common interest groups, support services and inclusive environments, and online networks and apps. Implications for practice to support a range of social participation include engaging in newer social networking avenues, as well as traditional paths through employment and support services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dara V Chan
- Division of Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling, Department of Allied Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and The University of North Carolina TEACCH Autism Program, Chapel Hill, USA.
- , Campus Box 7250, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Julie D Doran
- Division of Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling, Department of Allied Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and The University of North Carolina TEACCH Autism Program, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Osly D Galobardi
- Division of Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling, Department of Allied Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and The University of North Carolina TEACCH Autism Program, Chapel Hill, USA
- Essential Counseling and Therapeutic Services, PLLC, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Pellicano E, Fatima U, Hall G, Heyworth M, Lawson W, Lilley R, Mahony J, Stears M. A capabilities approach to understanding and supporting autistic adulthood. NATURE REVIEWS PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 1:624-639. [PMID: 36090460 PMCID: PMC9443657 DOI: 10.1038/s44159-022-00099-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
There is little comprehensive research into autistic adulthood, and even less into the services and supports that are most likely to foster flourishing adult autistic lives. This limited research is partly because autism is largely conceived as a condition of childhood, but this focus of research has also resulted from the orthodox scientific approach to autism, which conceptualizes autistic experience almost entirely as a series of biologically derived functional deficits. Approaching autism in this way severely limits what is known about this neurodevelopmental difference, how research is conducted and the services and supports available. In this Review, we adopt an alternative research strategy: we apply Martha Nussbaum's capabilities approach, which focuses on ten core elements of a thriving human life, to research on autistic adulthood. In doing so, we identify areas where autistic adults thrive and where they often struggle, and highlight issues to which researchers, clinicians and policymakers should respond. The resulting picture is far more complex than conventional accounts of autism imply. It also reveals the importance of engaging autistic adults directly in the research process to make progress towards genuinely knowing autism and supporting flourishing autistic lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Pellicano
- Macquarie School of Education, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Unsa Fatima
- Macquarie School of Education, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - Gabrielle Hall
- Macquarie School of Education, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - Melanie Heyworth
- Macquarie School of Education, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
- Reframing Autism, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - Wenn Lawson
- Macquarie School of Education, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - Rozanna Lilley
- Macquarie School of Education, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - Joanne Mahony
- Macquarie School of Education, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - Marc Stears
- UCL Policy Lab, University College London, London, UK
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'They ask no questions and pass no criticism': A mixed-methods study exploring pet ownership in autism. J Autism Dev Disord 2022:10.1007/s10803-022-05622-y. [PMID: 35678947 PMCID: PMC10313530 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05622-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Many autistic people cite a strong attachment to animals, and some studies suggest they may even show a bias towards animals over people. This mixed-methods study explored companion animal attachment in the adult autistic community. In a quantitative study with 735 people, we found that autistic adults were equally attached to their pets as neurotypicals but were less likely to own them, even though pet ownership corresponded with better mental health outcomes. Substituting pets for people also served as a compensatory mechanism for social contact in the autistic sample. In a second qualitative study, we explored the lived experiences of 16 autistic pet owners. The interpretive phenomenological analysis highlighted the benefits and the barriers to animal companionship. Together these mixed methods findings underline how pets improve the lives of their autistic owners. We conclude with specific recommendations for increasing animal companionship opportunities for autistic adults.
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Cola M, Yankowitz LD, Tena K, Russell A, Bateman L, Knox A, Plate S, Cubit LS, Zampella CJ, Pandey J, Schultz RT, Parish-Morris J. Friend matters: sex differences in social language during autism diagnostic interviews. Mol Autism 2022; 13:5. [PMID: 35012645 PMCID: PMC8751321 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-021-00483-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autistic individuals frequently experience social communication challenges. Girls are diagnosed with autism less often than boys even when their symptoms are equally severe, which may be due to insufficient understanding of the way autism manifests in girls. Differences in the behavioral presentation of autism, including how people talk about social topics, could contribute to these persistent problems with identification. Despite a growing body of research suggesting that autistic girls and boys present distinct symptom profiles in a variety of domains, including social attention, friendships, social motivation, and language, differences in the way that autistic boys and girls communicate verbally are not yet well understood. Closely analyzing boys' and girls' socially-focused language during semi-structured clinical assessments could shed light on potential sex differences in the behavioral presentation of autistic individuals that may prove useful for identifying and effectively supporting autistic girls. Here, we compare social word use in verbally fluent autistic girls and boys during the interview sections of the ADOS-2 Module 3 and measure associations with clinical phenotype. METHODS School-aged girls and boys with autism (N = 101, 25 females; aged 6-15) were matched on age, IQ, and parent/clinician ratings of autism symptom severity. Our primary analysis compared the number of social words produced by autistic boys and girls (normalized to account for differences in total word production). Social words are words that make reference to other people, including friends and family. RESULTS There was a significant main effect of sex on social word production, such that autistic girls used more social words than autistic boys. To identify the specific types of words driving this effect, additional subcategories of friend and family words were analyzed. There was a significant effect of sex on friend words, with girls using significantly more friend words than boys. However, there was no significant main effect of sex on family words, suggesting that sex differences in social word production may be driven by girls talking more about friends compared to boys, not family. To assess relationships between word use and clinical phenotype, we modeled ADOS-2 Social Affect (SA) scores as a function of social word production. In the overall sample, social word use correlated significantly with ADOS-2 SA scores, indicating that participants who used more social words were rated as less socially impaired by clinicians. However, when examined in each sex separately, this result only held for boys. LIMITATIONS This study cannot speak to the ways in which social word use may differ for younger children, adults, or individuals who are not verbally fluent; in addition, there were more autistic boys than girls in our sample, making it difficult to detect small effects. CONCLUSIONS Autistic girls used significantly more social words than boys during a diagnostic assessment-despite being matched on age, IQ, and both parent- and clinician-rated autism symptom severity. Sex differences in linguistic markers of social phenotype in autism are especially important in light of the late or missed diagnoses that disproportionately affect autistic girls. Specifically, heightened talk about social topics could complicate autism referral and diagnosis when non-clinician observers expect a male-typical pattern of reduced social focus, which autistic girls may not always exhibit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Cola
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
- Department of Psychology, La Salle University, 1900 West Olney Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19141 USA
| | - Lisa D. Yankowitz
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, 3720 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Kimberly Tena
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Alison Russell
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Leila Bateman
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Azia Knox
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Samantha Plate
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 210 S. Bouquet St, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA
| | - Laura S. Cubit
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Casey J. Zampella
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Juhi Pandey
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Robert T. Schultz
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Julia Parish-Morris
- Center for Autism Research, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 2716 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
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14
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Sun YJ, Xu LZ, Ma ZH, Yang YL, Yin TN, Gong XY, Gao ZL, Liu YL, Liu J. Health-related risky behaviors and their risk factors in adolescents with high-functioning autism. World J Clin Cases 2021; 9:6329-6342. [PMID: 34434999 PMCID: PMC8362546 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i22.6329] [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: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health-related risky behaviors generally refer to behaviors that have a negative impact on health and quality of life. Health-related risky behaviors in adolescents with high-functioning autism (HFA) have not been well understood so far. Adolescents with HFA may have more health-related risky behaviors than neurotypical adolescents.
AIM To investigate health-related risky behaviors and their risk factors with HFA.
METHODS This is an observational study. Our study enrolled 110 adolescents aged 12-19-years-old meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th edition criteria for HFA. They were recruited from Peking University Sixth Hospital. There were also 110 age, sex and nationality matched controls enrolled who came from a public school in Beijing, China. Both groups completed the Adolescents Health-related Risky Behavior Inventory. Nonparametric tests were carried out for comparison of the Adolescents Health-related Risky Behavior Inventory scores between the two groups. Expression recognition, the Inventory of Subjective Life Quality for Child and Adolescent, Chinese Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Adult-Chinese Revised, Theory of Mind test and Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire were assessed in the autism group to explore factors associated with health-related risky behaviors. Multivariate regression analysis was conducted to explore the risk factors of health-related risky behaviors in the HFA group.
RESULTS The results showed that the total score of the Adolescents Health-related Risky Behavior Inventory and scores of “aggression and violence,” “suicide and self-injury,” “health compromising behavior” and “unprotected sex” subscales in the HFA group were significantly higher than those in the control group (Z range -4.197 to -2.213, P < 0.05). Among the associated factors, poor emotional experience (B = -0.268, P < 0.001), depression (B = -0.321, P < 0.001), low score of intelligence (B = -0.032, P = 0.042), low score of Theory of Mind test (B = -1.321, P = 0.003) and poor adaptation to school life (B = -0.152, P = 0.006) were risk factors. These risky behaviors may promote the occurrence of health-related risky behaviors in adolescents with HFA.
CONCLUSION This study showed that adolescents with HFA were more likely to be involved in health-related risky behaviors. Different health-related risky behaviors have different reasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Jing Sun
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ling-Zi Xu
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zeng-Hui Ma
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yu-Lu Yang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ting-Ni Yin
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiao-Yun Gong
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zi-Lin Gao
- Quanzhou Children’s and Women’s Hospital, Quanzhou 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Yan-Ling Liu
- Department of Mathematics, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
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15
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Wood-Downie H, Wong B, Kovshoff H, Cortese S, Hadwin JA. Research Review: A systematic review and meta-analysis of sex/gender differences in social interaction and communication in autistic and nonautistic children and adolescents. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2021; 62:922-936. [PMID: 33137209 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence increasingly suggests that ASD manifests differently in females than males. Previous reviews investigating sex/gender differences in social interaction and social communication have focused at the level of broad constructs (e.g. comparing algorithm scores from pre-existing diagnostic instruments) and have typically reported no significant differences between males and females. However, a number of individual studies have found sex/gender differences in narrow construct domains. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and random effects model meta-analyses (in January 2019 and updated January 2020) that investigated sex/gender differences in narrow construct measures of social communication and interaction in autistic and nonautistic children and adolescents, and adults. Study quality was appraised using the Appraisal Tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS, BMJ Open, 6, 2016, 1). RESULTS Across 16 studies (including 2,730 participants), the analysis found that female (vs. male) individuals with ASD had significantly better social interaction and social communication skills (SMD = 0.39, p < .001), which was reflective of a similar sex/gender profile in nonautistic individuals (SMD = 0.35, p < .001). Nonautistic males had significantly better social interaction and communication than males with ASD (SMD = 0.77, p < .001). Nonautistic females also had significantly better social interaction and communication than females with ASD (SMD = 0.72, p <.001). Nonautistic males had better social interaction and communication than females with ASD, though this difference was not significant (SMD = 0.30, p = .07). CONCLUSIONS This systematic review and meta-analysis highlighted important sex/gender differences in social interaction and communication for individuals with ASD, likely not captured by pre-existing diagnostic instruments, which potentially contribute to the under recognition of autism in females, and may need to be reflected in the diagnostic process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Wood-Downie
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health - Developmental Lab, School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Bonnie Wong
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health - Developmental Lab, School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Hanna Kovshoff
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health - Developmental Lab, School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Samuele Cortese
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health - Developmental Lab, School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Solent NHS Trust, Southampton, UK.,Child Study Center, New York University, New York, NY, USA.,Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Julie A Hadwin
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health - Developmental Lab, School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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16
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Sun Y, Li X, Xu L, Ma Z, Yang Y, Yin T, Gao Z, Gong X, Li L, Liu Q, Tang X, Liu J. Health-related risky behaviors in Chinese adolescents with autism: a cross-sectional study. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2021; 15:39. [PMID: 34330314 PMCID: PMC8325271 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-021-00390-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health-related risky behaviors (HRB) generally refer to behaviors that have a negative influence on health and quality of life. HRB in adolescents with autism have not been well understood so far. We aim to explore health-related risky behaviors and their risk factors with autistic adolescents. METHODS In this study, 150 adolescents with autism and 150 neurotypical adolescents were enrolled. Participants in both groups completed the Adolescent Health-Related Risky Behavior Inventory (AHRBI). Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ), Wechsler Intelligence Scale, Theory of Mind (ToM) Test, Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), and Self-Esteem Scale (SES) were also assessed in the autism group to explore risk factors. RESULTS The results showed that the total score of AHRBI and scores of "aggression and violence (AV)", "suicide or self-injury (SS)", "health-compromising behavior (HCB)", and "unprotected sex (US)" subscales in the autism group were significantly higher than those in the control group (Z value = - 4.58 ~ - 2.26, all P < 0.05). Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, low IQ score, low ToM test score, increasing age, and communication disorder were found as risk factors for health-related risky behaviors in autistic adolescents. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents with autism have more health-related risky behaviors than neurotypical adolescents. We should pay attention to the emotional state, self-esteem, cognitive function, and verbal communication levels of autistic adolescent with health-related risky behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajing Sun
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Xue Li
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Lingzi Xu
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Zenghui Ma
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Yulu Yang
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Tingni Yin
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Zilin Gao
- Children’s and Women’s Hospital, Quanzhou, 362000 China
| | - Xiaoyun Gong
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Lei Li
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Qinyi Liu
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Xinzhou Tang
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Jing Liu
- Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, National Health Commission (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), No. 51 Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191 China
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