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Brief Report: Using the Social Communication Questionnaire to Identify Young People Residing in Secure Children's
P J Kennedy1, Philip Sinfield2, Lucy Tweedlie2
1The Kolvin Service, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, St Nicholas Hospital, Jubilee Road, Gosforth, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE3 3XT, UK. Jack.Kennedy@ntw.nhs.uk.
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|July 19, 2018
Summary
This study screened 113 adolescents in UK Secure Children's Homes for Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Results indicate a 13.3% prevalence of ASD symptoms, highlighting a need for better understanding and resources for these young people.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Child and adolescent psychology
- Forensic mental health
Background:
- Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects ~1% of the general population.
- Prevalence of ASD in Secure Children's Homes (SCHs) is poorly understood.
- Social/communication difficulties in SCHs require better understanding and resourcing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of ASD in UK SCHs.
- To screen adolescents in SCHs for ASD symptoms.
- To inform resource allocation and management strategies for this population.
Main Methods:
- Preliminary investigation using the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ).
- SCQ completed by support workers for 113 adolescents in two English SCHs.
- Screening tool used to identify potential ASD presentations.
Main Results:
- The SCQ identified 15 adolescents (13.3%) with symptoms compatible with ASD.
- This prevalence is significantly higher than in the general population.
- Discussion includes differences related to gender, legal status, and history of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE).
Conclusions:
- A notable percentage of adolescents in SCHs exhibit ASD symptoms.
- Findings underscore the need for tailored support and interventions within SCH settings.
- Further research is warranted to explore contributing factors and refine management approaches.
Keywords:
AdolescentAutistic spectrum disordersPrevalenceSecure unitsSocial communicationVulnerabilityMore Related Videos
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