Emotional and behavioural problems in young children with autism spectrum disorder. (16th June 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chandler, Susie; Howlin, Patricia; Simonoff, Emily; O'Sullivan, Tony; Tseng, Evelin; Kennedy, Juliet; Charman, Tony; Baird, Gillian
• Is Part Of: Developmental medicine & child neurology. Volume 58:Number 2(2016:Feb.)
• Page Start: 202
• Page End: 208
• Publication Date: 2015-06-16
• Subjects: Child development -- Periodicals; Pediatric neurology -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.12830
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0012-1622

Abstract

Abstract : Aim: To assess the frequency, pervasiveness, associated features, and persistence of emotional and behavioural problems in a community sample of young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Method: Parents ( n =277) and teachers ( n =228) of 4‐ to 8‐year‐olds completed the Developmental Behaviour Checklist (DBC). Intellectual ability and autism symptomatology were also assessed. A subsample repeated the DBC. Results: Three‐quarters of the cohort scored above the clinical cut‐off on the Developmental Behaviour Checklist Primary Carer Version (DBC‐P) questionnaire; almost two‐thirds of these scored above cut‐off on the Developmental Behaviour Checklist Teacher Version (DBC‐T) questionnaire. In 81%, problems persisted above threshold 14 months later. Higher DBC‐P scores were associated with greater autism symptomatology, higher deprivation index, parental unemployment, and more children in the home but not with parental education or ethnicity, or child's age or sex. Children with IQ>70 scored higher for disruptive behaviour, depression, and anxiety symptoms; those with IQ<70 scored higher for self‐absorption and hyperactivity. Interpretation: The DBC identifies a range of additional behaviour problems that are common in ASD and which could be the focus for specific intervention. The results highlight the potential benefit of systematic screening for co‐existing problems. What this paper adds: Three‐quarters of 4‐ to 8‐year‐olds with autism have parent‐reported emotional and behavioural problems. Two‐thirds of these also have teacher‐reported problems. Problems persist over time in 80%, and identification is possible at 4 to 5 years. The Developmental Behaviour Checklist assesses a wide range of difficulties in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Systematic use of such a questionnaire is recommended in routine clinical care of children with ASD. This article is commented on by Smith on pages121–122 of this issue.