Identifier

etd-08252014-122358

Degree

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Challenging behaviors, such as aggression, destruction, self-injurious behaviors, or stereotypic movements, affect the majority of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. One factor that is known to influence the frequency at which challenging behaviors occur is the presence of a comorbid disorder. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is thought to be one such disorder. This study aimed to compare the prevalence rates of challenging behaviors, according to the Autism Spectrum Disorder-Behavior Problems, Child Version (ASD-BPC), in children ages 6-16 with parent reported symptoms of ASD, ADHD, comorbid ASD/ADHD, and no diagnosis. Differences existing overall were examined as well as differences on the ASD-BPC’s two factors, behaviors directed towards self and behaviors directed towards others. Results indicate that individuals with symptoms of ASD/ADHD display significantly higher rates of challenging behavior than those with symptoms of ADHD only and no diagnosis. They also indicate that those with symptoms of ADHD displayed higher rates of challenging behavior than those with no diagnosis. A better understanding of challenging behaviors in individuals with comorbid ASD/ADHD will assist in more accurate differential diagnoses.

Date

2014

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Matson, Johnny

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.1734

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

COinS