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Association of Rigid-Compulsive Behavior with Functional Constipation in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Sarah Marler1, Bradley J Ferguson2, Evon Batey Lee3
1Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
Insights
Functional constipation (FC) is linked to rigid-compulsive behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This association was not observed in children not taking relevant medications, suggesting a complex relationship.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition.
- Functional constipation (FC) is a common gastrointestinal issue in children.
- Rigid-compulsive behaviors are frequently observed in children with ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between functional constipation (FC) and rigid-compulsive behavior in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- To explore the influence of behavioral medications on this association.
Main Methods:
- Utilized checklist data from the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network.
- Assessed FC symptoms in 108 children with ASD using the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms-Rome III.
- Evaluated rigid-compulsive behavior using the Repetitive Behavior Scales-Revised (RBS-R).
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between FC and compulsive, ritualistic, and sameness subscales of the RBS-R in the overall ASD population.
- FC was less prevalent in children not taking medications targeting behavior or FC.
- In medication-free children with ASD, rigid-compulsive behavior was not significantly linked to FC.
Conclusions:
- Functional constipation is associated with rigid-compulsive behaviors in children with ASD.
- Medication use may influence the observed association between FC and rigid-compulsive behavior.
- Further research is required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Abstract:
Based upon checklist data from the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network, we hypothesized that functional constipation (FC) would be associated with rigid-compulsive behavior in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We used the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms-Rome III to assess FC symptoms in 108 children with ASD. As hypothesized, FC was associated with parent ratings on the Repetitive Behavior Scales-Revised (RBS-R) Compulsive, Ritualistic, and Sameness subscales in the overall population. Of note, FC was less common in children who were not taking medications that target behavior or treat FC. In the medication-free children, rigid-compulsive behavior was not significantly associated with FC. More research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying these associations.
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