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Autism and attachment: a meta-analytic review
Anna H Rutgers1, Marian J Bakermans-Kranenburg, Marinus H van Ijzendoorn
1Center for Child and Family Studies, Leiden University, The Netherlands.
Summary
Children with autism show attachment behaviors, but are less securely attached than typically developing peers. Attachment security is possible in autism, especially with higher cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Child Psychiatry
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- Attachment is crucial for child development.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by social interaction impairments.
- Previous research on attachment in children with ASD is mixed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively synthesize evidence on attachment security in children with ASD.
- To determine if attachment security is observable and measurable in children with ASD.
- To explore factors influencing attachment security in this population.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of 16 studies on attachment in children with autism.
- A quantitative meta-analysis of 10 studies including observed attachment security data (N=287).
- Inclusion of studies utilizing the Strange Situation procedure.
Main Results:
- The majority of studies found evidence of attachment behaviors in children with ASD.
- Meta-analysis revealed children with ASD were significantly less securely attached (r=.24).
- Attachment insecurity was more pronounced in children with co-occurring intellectual disability or more severe ASD symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Attachment security is compatible with autism and can be assessed using standard procedures.
- Attachment insecurity is associated with the co-morbidity of autism and intellectual disability.
- Higher cognitive development may mitigate attachment insecurity in children with ASD.