Social Communication, Repetitive Behaviors and Interests, and Adaptive Behavior in Girls With Autism Spectrum...

Social communication, repetitive behaviors and interests, and adaptive behavior in girls with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) without intellectual disability were compared to a group of typically developing (TD) girls. Thirty seven girls 7;5-15;2 were included: 18 ASD and 19 TD. Groups were matched on age and IQ. Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ), Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2), and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS-2) were administered. Item level scores within the subdomains of reciprocal social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors and interests were examined on the SCQ and ADOS-2. With unadjusted p, significant differences between groups were observed on 21 of 36 items on the SCQ. With adjusted p, significant differences between groups were observed on 17 of the 36 total items. With unadjusted p, significant differences between groups were observed on 20 of 32 total items on the ADOS-2. With adjusted p, significant differences between groups were observed on 16 of the 32 total items. Within the ASD group significant negative correlation was observed between ADOS-2 repetitive behaviors and interests and SCQ communication. The ASD group demonstrated borderline to moderately low VABS-2 scores. Girls with ASD may demonstrate relative strengths in social communication on diagnostic measures. Differences in the expression of repetitive behaviors and interests between girls with ASD and girls with TD may not be observed during structured observation but may be reported by parents. Girls with ASD demonstrate weaker socialization skills relative to other adaptive behaviors and indicate a priority for treatment.