Behavioral problems in adolescents and young adults with neurodevelopmental disorders

The increasing prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), in children has led to concerns about waiting times for medical evaluation. Thus, Fukuchiyama City Hospital jointly established an ambulatory clinic for children with developmental disorders with the city government in 2010. This study aims to investigate behavioral challenges among patients aged 15 years and older attending the developmental outpatient clinic, particularly those diagnosed with ASD, to highlight challenges related to medical and social treatments.

The study examined patients aged 15 years and older diagnosed with NDD who visited the outpatient clinic for developmental disorders at Fukuchiyama City Hospital from January to December 2023. It collected data on demographics, duration of outpatient visits, diagnoses, current communication skills, and behavioral problems from medical records.

Out of 68 patients, 45 were diagnosed with ASD. Communication difficulties were prevalent, with 31.1% lacking significant verbal communication skills. Behavioral problems included behavioral deviance, inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, harmful behavior toward others, and self-injury. Low levels of developmental quotient (DQ) were associated with maladaptive behaviors, but harmful behaviors were independent of IQ/DQ.

The study highlights the behavioral problems in adolescents and young adult patients with ASD attending developmental clinics. Early and appropriate interventions, such as applied behavior analysis, are critical for addressing these challenging behaviors, especially harmful ones. The support of family and caregivers based on behavior analysis is necessary for enhancing the outcomes and quality of life of individuals with NDD.