Autism Observation Scale for Infants: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis in Samples at Increased Likelihood of...

Area of Science:

• Developmental psychology
• Clinical psychology
• Pediatric neurology

Background:

• The Autism Observation Scale for Infants (AOSI) is increasingly used with non-infant sibling populations.
• Assessing the utility of the AOSI in increased likelihood (IL) populations is crucial for early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze studies using the AOSI in increased likelihood (IL) populations.
• To evaluate the AOSI's effectiveness in identifying early signs of ASD in infants at higher risk.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 studies from six databases.
• Analysis of AOSI application in four IL contexts: infant siblings, Fragile X Syndrome, Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, and Down Syndrome.

Main Results:

• Five studies reported classification data, but without a consistent methodology.
• Group differences between IL-ASD, IL non-ASD, and control groups emerged by 12 months of age.
• Large effect sizes were observed between IL-ASD and control samples, indicating significant differences.

Conclusions:

• The AOSI demonstrates utility in identifying early signs of ASD in increased likelihood (IL) populations.
• The tool shows potential for early detection in infants with genetic syndromes and those with a family history of ASD.