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Autism-Related Variation in Reciprocal Social Behavior: A Longitudinal Study
Rachael E Wagner1, Yi Zhang1, Teddi Gray1
1Washington University in Saint Louis School of Medicine.
Child Development
|October 23, 2018
Summary
Autism-related variation in reciprocal social behavior (AVR) remains stable from childhood to early adulthood in individuals with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This finding highlights the consistent nature of social behavior development across the lifespan.
Area of Science:
- Developmental psychology
- Genetics
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
Background:
- Deficits in reciprocal social behavior are a core feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Autism-related variation (AVR) in social behavior is continuously distributed in the general population and is highly heritable.
- Genetic influences underlying AVR overlap with those causing clinical autistic syndromes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct the first long-term prospective study on the stability of autism-related variation in reciprocal social behavior (AVR).
- To examine AVR stability from childhood through early adulthood.
Main Methods:
- A cohort-sequential study design was employed.
- Serial ratings using the Social Responsiveness Scale were conducted.
- The study included a diverse cohort of 602 individuals (ages 2.5-29) with ASD, other psychiatric conditions, and their siblings.
Main Results:
- Autism-related variation in reciprocal social behavior (AVR) demonstrated marked stability throughout childhood.
- This stability was observed in individuals both with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Conclusions:
- Reciprocal social behavior, even in its subclinical variations, shows significant stability from childhood into early adulthood.
- These findings underscore the enduring nature of social interaction patterns throughout development.
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