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A Strategy to Identify de Novo Mutations in Common Disorders such as Autism and Schizophrenia
Published on: June 15, 2011
Compensatory strategies below the behavioural surface in autism: a qualitative study.
Lucy Anne Livingston1, Punit Shah2, Francesca Happé1
1Social, Genetic, and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
Adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and those with autistic-like difficulties use similar strategies to mask behavioral symptoms. These compensatory strategies impact diagnosis and outcomes, highlighting the need for better diagnostic tools.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Psychology
- Social Sciences
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compensatory profiles and strategies remain under-researched.
- Little is known about individuals without a formal diagnosis but with autistic-like difficulties and their use of compensatory strategies.
- Understanding these strategies is crucial for individuals who mask their autism symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate social compensatory strategies in adults with and without autism.
- To examine the effect of these strategies on diagnosis and clinical outcomes.
- To explore whether individuals below the diagnostic threshold use similar strategies.
Main Methods:
- A global convenience sample of 136 adults (aged 18+) was recruited via social media and the UK National Autistic Society.
- Participants self-reported their use and experiences of compensatory strategies through an online platform.
- Qualitative thematic analysis was employed to interpret responses and gain insights into compensatory strategies.
Main Results:
- Multiple compensatory strategies with distinct characteristics were identified.
- Individual and environmental factors influence the use and success of these strategies.
- Individuals without an autism diagnosis use strategies qualitatively similar to those with a diagnosis.
- Compensatory strategy use is associated with both positive outcomes (e.g., independence) and negative outcomes (e.g., poor mental health, late diagnosis).
Conclusions:
- Compensatory strategies are utilized by individuals with and without autism diagnoses.
- Awareness and measurement of these strategies should inform future diagnostic guidelines for improved accuracy and support.
- Support is needed for individuals whose cognitive difficulties are not apparent in observable behavior.
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