Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

Deficits in adaptive functioning and the presence of comorbid symptomatology are both commonly associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Previous research has identified relationships between functional level (e.g., intellectual quotient [IQ], adaptive functioning [AF]) and comorbid symptomatology in ASD. However, further insight into the relationship between AF, comorbid psychopathology, and ASD is unclear. Specifically, how AF affects the relationship between ASD and comorbid conditions is not well understood. Whether AF moderates the relationship between autism symptom severity and comorbid symptom severity in toddlers with ASD was examined. ASD symptom severity positively correlated with comorbid symptom severity across domains and negatively correlated with AF. AF negatively correlated with overall comorbid symptom severity. Decreased AF and increased comorbid symptom severity across domains (except Sleep Problems) predicted ASD symptom severity. No moderating effects were observed. Additional research is needed to understand possible interactions between these variables.

Date

7-4-2023

Committee Chair

Johnny Matson

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