Identifier

etd-06232017-124312

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social interaction and social communication as well as the presence of restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests, or activities (RRBIs; American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2013). Individuals with ASD experience lifelong and pervasive impairments across many domains of functioning. Early identification of ASD is imperative as earlier intervention is associated with greater gains in numerous areas. In regards to early identification efforts, routine screening is important. However, screening often fails to be conducted within early childhood care settings. To encourage greater rates of screening by offering a time efficient measure with sound psychometric properties, previous researchers developed and validated the abbreviated scoring algorithm for the Baby and Infant Screen for Children with aUtIsm Traits, Part 1 (BISCUIT-Part 1). The current study further examined the utility of the abbreviated scoring algorithm as a screener specifically in regards to its performance across varying ages, genders, and levels of developmental functioning. Results indicated that the abbreviated scoring algorithm performed well without any changes to its original form across age groups and genders and in participants with typical developmental functioning. An increase in the cutoff score was necessary to achieve adequate sensitivity and specificity in identifying ASD risk for participants with low developmental functioning. Implications of these results are discussed.

Date

2017

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Matson, Johnny L.

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_dissertations.4254

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Psychology Commons

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