The development of a stress survey schedule for persons with autism and other developmental disabilities

The Stress Survey Schedule is an instrument for measuring stress in the lives of persons with autism and other developmental disabilities. Development of the survey and analysis of the underlying measurement structure of the instrument is reported in three studies. Through the use of exploratory and confirmatory analysis procedures, eight dimensions of stress were identified: Anticipation/Uncertainty, Changes and Threats, Unpleasant Events, Pleasant Events, Sensory/Personal Contact, Food Related Activity, Social/Environmental Interactions, and Ritual Related Stress. These stress dimensions are highly relevant to the problems of autism and have not been addressed by other stress surveys. The information obtained from the Stress Survey can be used to plan for strategies to reduce the stress before it occurs or results in maladaptive behavior.