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Published on: October 3, 2018
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Behavioral gender differences in school-age children with autism
Maria Sanchez1, Jennifer C Bullen2, Matthew C Zajic3
1School of Education, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
|July 9, 2022
Summary
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children shows gender differences in behavior. Girls with ASD reported more bullying and less emotional control than boys, suggesting unique behavioral patterns warranting further study.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Child Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects social communication and behavior.
- Research on gender differences in ASD behaviors is ongoing.
- Understanding these differences is crucial for tailored interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sex-based differences in internalizing and externalizing behaviors among school-aged children with ASD.
- To compare specific behavioral manifestations between girls and boys diagnosed with ASD.
Main Methods:
- Eighty-nine children (17 girls, 72 boys) aged 8-16 with ASD participated.
- Participants were matched on the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition, and Full-Scale IQ (>64).
- Behavioral data were collected using the Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition.
Main Results:
- Girls with ASD reported higher instances of bullying compared to boys.
- Girls exhibited less anger control and poorer emotional self-control than boys.
- No significant differences were found between groups on the Social Communication Scale subscales.
Conclusions:
- This study highlights distinct behavioral patterns in girls with ASD, particularly in externalizing behaviors like bullying and emotional regulation.
- Findings suggest that girls with ASD may present with different behavioral challenges than previously recognized.
- Further research is needed to explore these sex-based differences in ASD to inform clinical practice and support strategies.
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