J Autism Dev Disord [JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Sensory Processing in Sexuality-Based Services for Autistic Individuals: A Cross-Sectional Survey.
Gray S, Fortuna J, Jones B … +2 more , Lilley D, Maginn J
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 Jun · PMID 42228235 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Research shows sensory processing impacts the personal experiences of autistic individuals, including sexual and intimate relationships. Despite this knowledge, sensory processing is not adequately addressed in...
PURPOSE: Research shows sensory processing impacts the personal experiences of autistic individuals, including sexual and intimate relationships. Despite this knowledge, sensory processing is not adequately addressed in sexuality-based services provided to this population. This study explores how professionals (teachers, therapists, sexologists, etc.) address sensory processing through the following research question: How is sensory processing currently being addressed in sexuality-based services for autistic individuals? METHODS: This 16-item exploratory survey was developed to examine how sensory processing is addressed by professionals providing sexuality-based services to autistic individuals. A survey link was shared with organizations who agreed to assist with recruitment. Participants had to hold a valid professional license, provide sex education, and have worked with autistic individuals within the last year. Data collection occurred over a period of two months. RESULTS: Survey respondents included 29 participants from nine disciplines. Thirteen respondents reported regularly evaluating sensory processing; whereas, 19 provided intervention. The primary reasons for not assessing or treating sensory processing was lack of training and resources, and standard practices. The proprioceptive and vestibular systems were addressed the least. Intervention approaches lacked clear evidence to support effectiveness and were primarily focused on treating hypersensitivity. Hyposensitivity or mixed sensory patterning (e.g., hyper and hyposensitivity) was largely overlooked. CONCLUSION: Currently, there are no known sexuality-based curricula specific to the sensory processing needs of autistic individuals. Additional research is needed to develop evidence-based, autism-specific resources that address sensory processing needs of this population.
"I Feel Like They Were Made in a Very Neurotypical World": Autistic Adult Experiences and Perceptions of Social Rules, Instruction, and Laws.
Lodge D, Vinter LP, Lennon H … +1 more , Lan W
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42213407 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Autistic individuals account for over one million people in the UK, and many more autistic individuals exist worldwide. This research employed an idiographic qualitative methodology to explore the perceptions an...
PURPOSE: Autistic individuals account for over one million people in the UK, and many more autistic individuals exist worldwide. This research employed an idiographic qualitative methodology to explore the perceptions and lived experiences of five autistic individuals as they navigate social rules, instructions, and criminal laws. METHODS: Qualitative interviews with participants were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. RESULTS: Analysis identified two group experiential themes: (i) Navigating the world with a different cognitive style, and (ii) Misrepresentation, ambiguity and the need for a 'why'. These themes indicate how autistic individuals experience social rules differently from non-autistic individuals. Specifically, themes illuminated how autistic people experience a social world governed by rules, norms and expectations, with some consideration towards criminal laws, that are not designed or communicated in ways that match their cognitive style. CONCLUSION: Findings underscore the importance of greater recognition and accommodation of autistic individuals' perspectives, as well as their involvement in the construction, communication, and application of social rules. Recommendations for reforming existing systems and providing additional support for autistic individuals are discussed.
Early Intervention and Social Decision-Making Skills in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Insights from Jordan.
Khamis EM, Al-Natour M
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42213406 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Early intervention (EI) is considered important for social and adaptive outcomes in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet evidence from Jordan is limited. In this study, social decision-making competencies incl...
BACKGROUND: Early intervention (EI) is considered important for social and adaptive outcomes in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet evidence from Jordan is limited. In this study, social decision-making competencies include self-control, social awareness, group participation, and decision-making/social problem-solving. Adaptive outcomes refer to mothers' descriptions of everyday functional changes in real-life settings. METHODS: Mothers of children and adolescents with ASD in Jordan (n = 119) completed structured questionnaires rating these competencies and related behaviors. EI history was based on mothers' reports of prior structured EI services. Quantitative comparisons were conducted between an EI-history group and a no-EI group, stratified by age (6-12; 13-16) and pooled (6-16). A subsample completed in-depth interviews to contextualize questionnaire patterns; qualitative data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis within an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. RESULTS: In pooled analyses (6-16), the EI-history group showed higher scores across all three dimensions: Self-Control (adjusted p = 0.015), Social Awareness/Group Participation (adjusted p < 0.001), and Decision-Making/Social Problem-Solving (adjusted p = 0.002). In children aged 6-12, all three dimensions were higher in the EI-history group: Self-Control (adjusted p = 0.012), Social Awareness/Group Participation (adjusted p < 0.001), and Decision-Making/Social Problem-Solving (adjusted p < 0.001). Among adolescents aged 13-16, no domain differences were detected. Interviews were broadly consistent with these patterns, describing perceived everyday gains mainly in younger children. CONCLUSION: Mother-reported ratings varied by EI history for selected competencies and by age. Findings support the importance of improving access to EI in Jordan, and structured follow-up supports may be needed into adolescence.
Calendar Calculation Savant Syndrome in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Cognitive Function Measured by the Wechsler Intelligence Scale.
Kawasaki Y, Shinomiya M, Mishima T … +8 more , Ino T, Ishida R, Sakai K, Mizuno K, Takayanagi M, Hamamoto Y, Honda H, Niwa SI
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42213405 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study addressed gaps in prior research on savant syndrome (SS) by restricting participation to individuals with diagnosed autism spectrum disorder (ASD), where SS frequently co-occurs, and focusing on a spe...
PURPOSE: This study addressed gaps in prior research on savant syndrome (SS) by restricting participation to individuals with diagnosed autism spectrum disorder (ASD), where SS frequently co-occurs, and focusing on a specific subtype: savant syndrome in calendar calculation (SSC). The primary objectives were to determine the prevalence, intellectual profile, and developmental trajectory of SSC and compare these characteristics with those in savant syndrome in art (SSA), savant syndrome in music (SSM), and non-savant individuals (NSS) with ASD. METHODS: SSC was identified using broad classification criteria. Intellectual functioning and Wechsler Intelligence Scale indices were compared across the four groups (SSC, SSA, and SSM, and NSS). For SSC, accuracy rates and reaction times on a calendar calculation task were assessed in relation to Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient (FSIQ) and subtest scores. RESULTS: SSC was most frequently observed among individuals with mild intellectual disability. Some participants lost calendar calculation skills over time. Wechsler test findings showed significantly lower FSIQ in SSC than in NSS. By subtest, SSC scored highest on Digit Span, SSA and SSM on Block Design, and NSS on Similarities. All SS groups scored lowest on Comprehension, whereas NSS scored lowest on Coding. In the calendar calculation task, accuracy correlated with Digit Span scores and the discrepancy between Digit Span and Comprehension, while reaction time correlated inversely with FSIQ. CONCLUSION: Exceptional calendar calculation abilities in ASD were linked to a cognitive profile marked by superior memory (auditory working memory and long term memory) but weak Comprehension.
First Impressions Count: A Systematic Literature Review Exploring Parents of Autistic Children's First Encounters With Healthcare Professionals.
Nevin M, Walsh E, O'Donnell GM … +1 more , Xie H
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42207448 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: First signs of autism are typically noticed in a child's early development. When parents or carers first become aware of developmental differences in their child, they are likely to experience feelings of concer...
PURPOSE: First signs of autism are typically noticed in a child's early development. When parents or carers first become aware of developmental differences in their child, they are likely to experience feelings of concern and uncertainty and may seek advice from healthcare professionals (HCPs). This consultation is a pivotal encounter with respect to how supported parents feel, and whether or not they pursue an autism assessment for their child. While previous reviews have focused broadly on parents' experiences of and journey to autism assessments for their children, no review has focused specifically on parents' first experiences with HCPs. METHODS: Using reflexive thematic analysis, this qualitative systematic review synthesised findings from twenty-five studies, with the aim of exploring parents of autistic children's first experiences with HCPs when they had concerns in relation to their child's development, and the perceived impact of that first encounter. RESULTS: Three key themes were identified which included: parents' first encounters with HCPs, which were mostly described as unhelpful; autism awareness and knowledge amongst healthcare professionals as perceived by parents; and the impact of racial, ethnic, and gender biases on this first encounter. CONCLUSION: Findings highlight the importance of HCPs being receptive to parental concerns, especially during first encounters with parents. The importance of autism specific training for healthcare professional, with specific focus on clarifying autism assessment pathways and communicating the heterogenous nature of autism was also highlighted.
Content Validity of the K-CAT Assessing Mental Health Challenges in Autism: A Mixed Methods Analysis of Perspectives from Autistic Youth, Caregivers, and Clinicians.
Cervantes PE, Becker C, Horwitz SM … +4 more , Lai E, Cohen Y, Gibbons RD, Palinkas LA
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42207447 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Mental health (MH) challenges in autistic youth are often under-identified due in part to limited availability of assessment tools developed or adapted for the autism population. The K-CAT, a battery of computer...
PURPOSE: Mental health (MH) challenges in autistic youth are often under-identified due in part to limited availability of assessment tools developed or adapted for the autism population. The K-CAT, a battery of computerized adaptive tests assessing up to nine MH domains in the general population, shows promise in addressing this need. Because these general instruments may not be valid or acceptable for use with autistic individuals, we evaluated the K-CAT's content validity for autistic youth with input from the autism community. METHODS: Feedback was obtained from autistic youth, caregivers, and clinicians on the K-CAT through a mixed methods research design. One-hundred-fifty-one youth and caregivers provided feedback on ease of administration, relevance, comprehensiveness, and comprehensibility of the K-CAT overall. Thirty youth/caregiver dyads and 15 clinicians then participated in the mixed methods study of the K-CAT at the module- and item-level. RESULTS: While participants had positive impressions of the K-CAT overall, weaknesses were identified by most participants and several recommendations for change were provided. The modules identified as most challenging were the Mania, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Conduct Disorder (CD) modules of the Child Version and the CD, Mania, and Anxiety modules of the Parent Version. The most commonly reported concerns were comprehension/clarity issues and symptom overlap between MH conditions and autism. CONCLUSIONS: Modifications to the K-CAT appear both necessary and feasible. Findings will inform the development of a K-CAT Autism Version, which has the potential to transform the detection and monitoring of MH symptoms in autistic youth.
Differential Associations of Adversity and Victimisation With Psychotic Experiences in Autistic Adolescents.
Aguado-Gracia J, Borràs R, Escalona RC
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42207446 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study examined the unexplored associations between childhood adversity, maltreatment, and psychotic experiences in autistic adolescents, focusing on how trauma subtypes relate to positive and negative dimen...
PURPOSE: This study examined the unexplored associations between childhood adversity, maltreatment, and psychotic experiences in autistic adolescents, focusing on how trauma subtypes relate to positive and negative dimensions. METHODS: Participants were 73 autistic adolescents (12-18 years, IQ > 85) with a confirmed ASD diagnosis (DSM-5; ADOS-2/ADI-R), recruited from the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) at Hospital Clínic de Barcelona. Linear regression models assessed which subtypes of adversity (ACEs) and maltreatment (JVQ), controlling for clinical and sociodemographic covariates, were associated with positive (PPE) and negative (NPE) psychotic experiences as measured by the CAPE-42. Final models were selected via forward stepwise procedures and internally validated using bootstrapped cross-validation. RESULTS: For PPE, the adversity model (Adj. R² = 0.498) identified sexual abuse, emotional neglect, family origin, and psychiatric admissions as significant correlates. The maltreatment model (Adj. R² = 0.398) included the JVQ Sexual Victimization and Peer and Sibling Victimization subscales, family origin, and psychiatric admissions. For NPE, the adversity model (Adj. R² = 0.399) identified internalizing symptoms, physical abuse, female sex, and family origin, while the maltreatment model (Adj. R² = 0.553) identified family origin, the JVQ Child Maltreatment subscale, internalizing symptoms, female sex, and the JVQ Peer and Sibling Victimization subscale. CONCLUSION: Childhood trauma showed distinct patterns of association with psychotic dimension profiles. Sexual abuse, emotional neglect, and peer victimisation were linked to increased PPE, whereas child maltreatment and peer victimisation were more strongly associated with NPE. These findings highlight the importance of integrating systematic trauma assessment into autism care.
Neurodevelopmental Assessment, EEG Findings and Epilepsy in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Retrospective Study.
Didinmez Taşkırdı E, Baykan M, Özyurt G … +2 more , Gençpınar P, Olgaç Dündar N
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42207445 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the association between epilepsy and findings from neurological evaluations, including electroencephalography (EEG), neuroimaging, genetic testing, and developmental assessments, in chi...
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the association between epilepsy and findings from neurological evaluations, including electroencephalography (EEG), neuroimaging, genetic testing, and developmental assessments, in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). METHODS: Ninety-nine children with ASD (DSM-5-TR) were retrospectively evaluated at a tertiary center between 2012 and 2021. Data included demographics, EEG, neuroimaging, genetic testing, and developmental assessments. RESULTS: The cohort was predominantly male (76.8%), with a mean age of 10.2 ± 4.7 years. EEG was performed in 51 patients, with abnormalities detected in 43.1%. Epilepsy was diagnosed in 22.2% (n = 22). Among 42 patients who underwent chromosomal microarray analysis, pathogenic variants were identified in 52.4%. Chi-square analysis showed significant associations between epilepsy and abnormal EEG findings (χ²=45.45, p < 0.001) and pathogenic variants (χ²=7.68, p = 0.006), but not gender (p = 0.823) or intellectual disability (p = 0.691). Logistic regression identified abnormal EEG findings as the strongest independent predictor of epilepsy (OR = 48.96, 95% CI: 12.90-190.97), followed by pathogenic variants (OR = 4.38, 95% CI: 1.64-12.10). EEG abnormalities were present in 77.3% of patients with seizures and 6.4% of those without seizures. CONCLUSION: EEG abnormalities and epilepsy are highly prevalent in children with ASD. Abnormal EEG findings and pathogenic genetic variants were strong independent predictors of epilepsy in our cohort. EEG should be strongly considered in children with ASD, particularly those with seizures, developmental regression, unexplained paroxysmal events or pathogenic genetic variants. Prospective studies are needed to determine whether broader, potentially routine EEG at diagnosis is warranted in terms of diagnostic yield, cost-effectiveness and long-term outcomes.
Sensory and Executive Function Subtypes Associated With Participation in Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Latent Profile Analysis Approach.
Cangi AF, Bozduman Çelebi S
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42204040 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study examined sensory processing profiles in adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and considered how these profiles connect with executive function (EF) and participation, based on reports from...
PURPOSE: This study examined sensory processing profiles in adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and considered how these profiles connect with executive function (EF) and participation, based on reports from different informants. The goal was not only to describe these profiles. It was also to understand how they relate to everyday functioning across school, and community contexts. METHODS: A total of 102 adolescents aged 12-17 years with clinically confirmed ASD participated in this cross-sectional study. Sensory processing was assessed with the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (A/ASP), executive function (EF) with the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Second Edition (BRIEF-2), and participation with the Child and Adolescent Scale of Participation (CASP). Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) based on standardized A/ASP quadrant scores identified distinct sensory subtypes. Differences in EF and participation were analyzed using the BCH three-step method controlling for age, sex, and medication use. RESULTS: LPA revealed four sensory subtypes: Typical/Low Difficulty, Sensory Over-Responsive/Avoidant (SOR), Under-Responsive/Low Registration (SUR), and Sensation Seeking/Mixed. The SOR profile showed higher EF difficulties on BRIEF-2 and lower caregiver-reported participation (Hedges g ≈ 0.70-1.05, q < 0.01). The SUR group showed moderately higher EF difficulties and small participation decreases compared with the Typical group, while the Seeking/Mixed group showed minimal EF differences and context-dependent participation patterns. CONCLUSION: Distinct sensory modulation profiles are associated with executive function and participation in adolescents with ASD. Findings suggest that sensory-cognitive patterns reflect variability in everyday self-regulation. Profile-based, multi-perspective assessment may support individualized intervention planning in educational and occupational therapy contexts.
The Language Gap: Disparities in Expressive Versus Receptive Language in Young Children With Neurodevelopmental Conditions.
Kinard JL, Tapia AL, Reinhartsen D … +4 more , Watson LR, Crais ER, Bradley C, Daniels JL
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42204039 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study examined factors related to three language profiles (i.e., expressive dominance [ED], receptive dominance [RD], and non-dominance [ND]), among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), other devel...
PURPOSE: This study examined factors related to three language profiles (i.e., expressive dominance [ED], receptive dominance [RD], and non-dominance [ND]), among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), other developmental delays (DD), and a sample of controls from the general population (POP). METHODS: Data were from the Study to Explore Early Development (SEED), a multi-site, US-based, case-control study of correlates of ASD among 2.5-to-5-year-olds (N = 4905). We examined factors associated with language dominance using multinomial regression models to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: Across all groups, children had the greatest odds of an ND language profile, but ED and RD profiles were relatively more common in ASD versus DD and POP. Autistic children had greater odds of: (a) ED if they demonstrated lower developmental levels (i.e., younger age, lower nonverbal cognition, limited imaginative play, or below average fine motor) or had more severe characteristics of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism across both social interaction and restricted and repetitive behaviors; and (b) RD if they performed at higher developmental levels (i.e., older age or above average fine motor), but also demonstrated limited initiations of joint attention or limited imaginative play. Autistic children had lower odds of ND at older ages, in contrast with DD and POP, who had greater odds of ND at older ages. CONCLUSION: This study extended findings showing that, although an ND profile is most common across groups, ED and RD profiles occur relatively more frequently among autistic children. These findings have implications for differential diagnosis and intervention targets.
Food Selectivity as a Driver of Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Constipation in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Gürgör EV, Beyaz EK, Bayram S
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42204038 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study examined the association between food selectivity-a common nutrition-related behavioral challenge-and constipation and overall gastrointestinal (GI) symptom severity in children with autism spectrum d...
PURPOSE: This study examined the association between food selectivity-a common nutrition-related behavioral challenge-and constipation and overall gastrointestinal (GI) symptom severity in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study conducted in Türkiye, 105 parents of children aged 4-10 years completed a questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics and eating habits. Food selectivity/mealtime behaviors were evaluated using the brief autism mealtime behaviors inventory (BAMBI). GI symptom burden was assessed with a GI symptom severity index, and functional constipation was evaluated using Rome III diagnostic criteria. RESULTS: Based on the GI severity index, 41.0% of children were reported to have constipation. The GI severity index showed a positive, weak but significant correlation with the BAMBI total score (r = 0.353, p < 0.01). Consistently, the limited food variety subdomain of BAMBI was positively correlated with GI severity (r = 0.196, p < 0.05). The constipation subscore was positively correlated with the overall GI severity index score (r = 0.291, p < 0.01). Moreover, constipation was correlated with Rome III functional constipation (r = 0.226, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In children with ASD, greater food selectivity-particularly reduced dietary variety-was associated with higher GI symptom burden and constipation. These findings highlight the importance of assessing food selectivity and dietary diversity when addressing constipation and GI complaints in children with ASD.
Age-Dependent Restraint Patterns in Pediatric Emergency Department Patients With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Brief Report.
McGaughey S, Chung S, Sheridan D … +1 more , Burns B
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42189370 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 36 children, with many presenting to emergency departments (EDs) for behavioral health concerns. This study examined age-specific restraint patterns in pediatric ED pa...
PURPOSE: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 36 children, with many presenting to emergency departments (EDs) for behavioral health concerns. This study examined age-specific restraint patterns in pediatric ED patients with ASD compared to patients without ASD. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 3,469 patients aged 5-17.9 years requiring psychiatric consultation or behavioral hold at a tertiary pediatric ED (2013-2025). Physical and pharmacologic restraint use were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression with age-stratified analysis across developmentally-based categories: 5-8 years, 9-12 years, and > 12 years. RESULTS: Physical restraint occurred in 14.1% of pediatric patients with ASD versus 6.0% in the psychiatric control group without ASD (adjusted OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.68-3.08). Age-stratified analysis revealed no difference in 5-8 year-olds (aOR 0.51, p = 0.324), but substantial elevation in 9-12 year-olds (aOR 2.01, p = 0.014) and adolescents > 12 years (aOR 2.86, p < 0.001). Pharmacologic restraint remained elevated across all age groups (43.2% vs 31.9%, aOR 1.67, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: These novel age-dependent patterns suggest current ED approaches inadequately address developmental differences in ASD presentations, highlighting urgent needs for age-stratified protocols.
Automated Quantification of Affect Synchrony: Links to Autism Risk and Social Communication in Infancy.
Lin L, Li Q, Yin S … +8 more , Yue Z, Zhu J, Han Y, Dai Y, Chen H, Chen Y, Guan L, Ke X
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42189369 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Interpersonal affect synchrony (IAS), the moment-to-moment coordination of emotional expressions in parent-child interactions, is a key marker of early social development. However, scalable methods for quantifyi...
PURPOSE: Interpersonal affect synchrony (IAS), the moment-to-moment coordination of emotional expressions in parent-child interactions, is a key marker of early social development. However, scalable methods for quantifying IAS and examining its link to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are limited. This study aimed to evaluate whether automated, computer-vision-based quantification of IAS could capture early dyadic interaction patterns linked to an elevated likelihood of later ASD outcomes. METHODS: We analyzed video recordings of 70 mother-infant dyads at elevated risk for ASD (aged 6-14 months). IAS was quantified using a validated computer vision pipeline benchmarked against manual coding. Clinical Best Estimate (CBE) diagnoses at 18-24 months determined ASD outcomes. Associations between IAS, maternal positive responsiveness, and concurrent social-communicative functioning (assessed via the CSBS) were examined. Classification models incorporating dyadic metrics were compared to models relying solely on infant behavior. RESULTS: Infants later diagnosed with ASD exhibited significantly lower IAS, despite higher maternal positive affect. IAS independently predicted concurrent social-communicative functioning. Classification models incorporating dyadic metrics demonstrated more balanced and robust performance in identifying ASD risk compared to models based solely on infant behavior. CONCLUSION: Automated quantification of IAS provides a reliable, scalable approach to capture early dyadic interaction patterns associated with ASD risk. These findings highlight the potential of targeting parent-infant synchrony in early screening and intervention strategies, offering a promising direction for objective, behavior-based assessments in infancy.
Vitamin D in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Critical Systematic Review of Evidence and Methodological Limitations.
Claussen S, Pahr-Hosbach S
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42189368 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Vitamin D is discussed in neurodevelopmental and immune pathways relevant to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This systematic review synthesizes evidence on serum vitamin D status and vitamin D supplementation...
BACKGROUND: Vitamin D is discussed in neurodevelopmental and immune pathways relevant to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This systematic review synthesizes evidence on serum vitamin D status and vitamin D supplementation outcomes in children and adolescents with ASD, with descriptive reporting of one combined vitamin D plus omega-3 arm for context only. METHODS: PubMed was searched on 16 August 2024 for observational studies reporting serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of vitamin D supplementation; the primary narrative synthesis of trial evidence was restricted to double-blind, placebo-controlled studies with the maximum Jadad score (5/5). RESULTS: Eight observational studies met inclusion criteria. Most reported lower 25(OH)D in children with ASD compared with comparator groups, while neonatal findings were mixed across cohorts. Among three placebo-controlled RCTs, one high-dose study reported statistically significant improvements on symptom scales, whereas trials using 2,000 IU/day reported marginal or no effects on ASD-related outcomes. One combined vitamin D plus omega-3 trial arm is summarized descriptively for context. CONCLUSION: Current evidence does not support vitamin D supplementation as a general ASD-targeted intervention. Larger, well-controlled trials with prespecified baseline status, standardized outcomes, and safety-focused follow-up are needed to clarify potential subgroup effects and clinical relevance.
Eating and Sleep Disturbances in Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder in Turkey: A Systematic Review.
Geyik M, Aral N
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42189367 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study aims to systematically analyze the general trends, methodological frameworks, and core findings of graduate-level theses focusing on eating and sleep disturbances among individuals with Autism Spectru...
PURPOSE: This study aims to systematically analyze the general trends, methodological frameworks, and core findings of graduate-level theses focusing on eating and sleep disturbances among individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Türkiye. It specifically investigates the distribution of academic disciplines, chronological growth, and prevalent research themes within this field. METHODS: A comprehensive review was conducted using the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) National Thesis Center database. A total of 42 eligible theses (30 Master's, 10 Medical Specialization, and 2 Doctoral) published between 2012 and 2025 were selected based on inclusion criteria and analyzed through descriptive parameters. RESULTS: Findings reveal a significant surge in academic interest between 2019 and 2025, accounting for 81% of the total output. Nutrition and Dietetics (45.2%) emerged as the leading discipline, followed by Psychiatry (19.0%). While 64.3% of the studies focused on feeding issues, 21.4% addressed sleep disturbances. Methodologically, the literature is dominated by quantitative designs (97.6%), with food selectivity (66%) and sleep disruptions (65%) identified as highly prevalent issues linked to sensory sensitivities, gastrointestinal distress, and parental stress. CONCLUSION: Although research in Türkiye is expanding, there is a notable scarcity of qualitative designs and doctoral-level inquiries. The findings underscore an urgent need for multidisciplinary strategies and more in-depth, longitudinal research to better understand and manage the complex physiological and behavioral challenges associated with ASD.
Insight into Haploinsufficiency of the ERBB4 Gene: Expanding the Spectrum of Associated Phenotypes.
Mademont-Soler I, Camós-Carreras M, Garde A … +34 more , Innes AM, Perovic D, Golob B, Palacín A, Mroczkowski HJ, Butler KM, Van Galen P, Oprea G, Güngör Ö, Casellas-Vidal D, Hernández G, Goel H, Appleby J, Kravljanac R, De Leon K, Rad A, Yavuz M, Ameziane N, Durmaz A, Popescu C, Aykut A, Akın H, Gökçay F, Mindruta I, Bosankic B, Perrier R, Burns W, Hanna DL, Maksimovic N, Peterlin B, Prince B, Safraou H, Obón M, Esteba-Castillo S
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42183944 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The ERBB4 gene encodes a tyrosine kinase receptor for neuregulins and EGF family members, and plays a crucial role in various neurobiological processes. At present, the phenotypic manifestations of genetic varia...
PURPOSE: The ERBB4 gene encodes a tyrosine kinase receptor for neuregulins and EGF family members, and plays a crucial role in various neurobiological processes. At present, the phenotypic manifestations of genetic variants that disrupt ERBB4 gene function (null variants) are not well established. METHODS: A search for new patients with null variants in ERBB4 was initiated through an international data-sharing collaboration via GeneMatcher, and by searching the databases Decipher and ClinVar. Diagnosis had been performed using chromosomal microarray analysis, whole-exome sequencing, or whole-genome sequencing. RESULTS: Twenty-four new patients from 13 unrelated families with null variants in ERBB4 were identified. Genetic findings included single- or multiple-exon deletions in eight families, a reciprocal translocation disrupting ERBB4 in one family, and sequence variants in four. Variants arose de novo in four probands, were inherited in eight, and had an unknown inheritance pattern in one. Co-segregation of variants with clinical manifestations was observed within families. The predominant clinical features included neurodevelopmental disorders (intellectual disability, neurodevelopmental delay, autism spectrum disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), speech delay, challenging behaviors, hypotonia, psychiatric conditions and seizures. CONCLUSION: This study represents the largest case series of patients with neurological disorders and null variants in the ERBB4 gene. Our findings support haploinsufficiency as the most plausible pathophysiological mechanism underlying ERBB4-related disorders and broaden the spectrum of associated phenotypes. Autism spectrum disorders and psychiatric manifestations have emerged as frequent, previously underrecognized features. Penetrance appears to be high but incomplete, and expressivity is highly variable, with a tendency toward intrafamilial phenotypic conservation.
Police Stops Among Adolescents With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Implications for Traumatic Stress.
Webb L, Chatterjee A, Holingue C … +1 more , Jackson DB
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42171965 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The present study examines differences in police stops, features of those stops, and stress outcomes between youth with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). METHODS: Data from Wave 6 (a...
PURPOSE: The present study examines differences in police stops, features of those stops, and stress outcomes between youth with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). METHODS: Data from Wave 6 (age 15) of the Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study (FFCWS), a national sample of urban-born youth in the U.S., was analyzed in 2025 (n = 3,444). Logistic regression models first examined associations between IDD diagnosis and direct police stops. Negative binomial regressions and linear regressions were then conducted among the subsample of youth who reported a direct police stop (n = 918) to examine the associations between IDD diagnosis and officer intrusiveness, perceptions of procedural justice, emotional distress during the direct stop, and police-initiated post-traumatic stress (PI-PTSS). RESULTS: Youth with IDD diagnoses did not have significantly greater odds of experiencing a direct police stop than youth without IDD. However, among youth with a direct police stop, youth with IDD diagnoses reported higher emotional distress during direct police stops and higher PI-PTSS than youth without IDD. CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that direct police stops may have more detrimental effects on stress and mental health of youth with IDD compared to youth without IDD. Policy reform, officer training, and additional research are needed to safeguard the mental health and wellbeing of youth with IDD.
Factor Structure and Longitudinal Measurement Invariance of the Psychopathology in Autism Checklist.
Kildahl AN, Halvorsen MB, Hellerud JMA … +1 more , Helverschou SB
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42171964 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The Psychopathology in Autism Checklist (PAC) was developed to screen for mental health disorders in autistic adults with intellectual disabilities, focusing on identifying common mental health symptoms that do...
PURPOSE: The Psychopathology in Autism Checklist (PAC) was developed to screen for mental health disorders in autistic adults with intellectual disabilities, focusing on identifying common mental health symptoms that do not overlap with autism characteristics. The current study aims to examine the factor structure and longitudinal measurement invariance of the PAC. METHODS: Existing data from a longitudinal multicentre study of mental health treatment in autistic individuals with intellectual disabilities were used. The PAC factor structure was examined using intake data (n = 201, 60 females, aged 13-68) and the longitudinal measurement invariance was explored using data across the study's three time points (intake, end of treatment, follow-up; n = 173, 56 females, aged 13-68). RESULTS: The four disorder-specific subscales of the PAC (psychosis, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder [OCD]) showed an acceptable but suboptimal fit, while the inclusion of the general adjustment problems (GAP) subscale resulted in a poorer fit. Three of the subscales (GAP, OCD, depression) showed longitudinal measurement invariance, while two did not (psychosis, anxiety), suggesting caution when using the latter subscales for evaluative purposes. An alternative model was identified, comprising 35 of the original 42 PAC items. It showed an improved fit and longitudinal measurement invariance for all five subscales across the three time points. CONCLUSION: These findings provide a starting point for further development of the PAC. While the alternative model appears to improve structural validity and seems better suited for comparisons over time, further research is needed to determine whether it could also be useful for screening purposes.
Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children With Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy.
Chow SCW, Wang Y, Leung OLK … +6 more , Liang LS, Soo MT, Jalal K, Wong SCM, Lee TMC, Tso WWY
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42171963 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study investigated the risk of ASD and ADHD in children who have survived hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), one of the common conditions during birth resulting in neonatal brain injury. METHODS: A popu...
PURPOSE: This study investigated the risk of ASD and ADHD in children who have survived hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), one of the common conditions during birth resulting in neonatal brain injury. METHODS: A population-based cohort study analyzed electronic medical records of term infants with HIE born in public hospital in Hong Kong from 1st January 2004 to 31st December 2018 with followed-up until 31st Dec 2024. The association of HIE with ADHD and ASD was examined using log-binomial regression models adjusting sequentially for age, sex, and socioeconomic status (SES). RESULTS: A total of 533,230 children were included of which 349 cases had a diagnosis of HIE. Compared to children without history of HIE, the RR of ADHD in children with HIE was 1.94 (CI 1.40-2.68, p < 0.001) in the unadjusted model, 1.83 (CI 1.32, 2.52, p < 0.001) when adjusting for age & sex, and 1.84 (CI 1.34, 2.55, p < 0.001) when adjusting for age, sex and socioeconomic status (SES). The relationship between ASD and HIE did not reach statistical significance, RR = 1.58 (p = 0.08, CI 0.93, 2.68) adjusted for age, sex and SES. A significant interaction effect was found between HIE and the age of mothers, the RR of ADHD was 4.25 (CI 2.14, 8.46) in mothers under 24 years of age. CONCLUSION: Children with HIE, especially those born to younger mothers, were associated with elevated risk of ADHD. The relationship between ASD and HIE remained inconclusive, suggesting the need for further research to clarify this potential association.
Do Child Communicative Abilities Predict Subjective Wellbeing and Satisfaction With Family Life in Caregivers of Minimally Verbal Children?
Saul J, McGuinness L, Cooke M … +2 more , Munaweera S, Matthews D
J Autism Dev Disord · 2026 May · PMID 42162506 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental conditions often experience poor mental wellbeing, which may be influenced by their child's behavioural or communicative profile. Few studies have focussed exclusiv...
PURPOSE: Caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental conditions often experience poor mental wellbeing, which may be influenced by their child's behavioural or communicative profile. Few studies have focussed exclusively on caregivers of minimally verbal (MV) children-a heterogeneous group who share limited access to spoken language but vary in communicative competence and primary diagnosis. In this population, caregiver wellbeing may be associated with a child's ability to communicate their wants and needs via any modality. METHODS: We examined associations between child communicative competence and caregiver wellbeing in a transdiagnostic sample of school-age MV children (n = 193, mean age 7.6-years, 73% male) and their caregivers (91% mothers). General positive wellbeing was assessed using a brief, well-validated tool designed for the general population. A second measure-developed for parents of autistic children-captured caregiver-specific wellbeing and family life satisfaction. Child communicative competence combined caregiver-reported social communication challenges and early communication skills with observed measures of communicative intent and sophistication. Analyses controlled for demographic factors, non-social autism features, adaptive skills, and behavioural and health comorbidities, including ADHD and gastrointestinal challenges. RESULTS: Caregivers reported significantly lower wellbeing than population norms, with 23% meeting subclinical and 26% probable clinical depression thresholds. Child communicative competence did not predict general positive wellbeing, but did predict caregiver wellbeing and family life satisfaction. CONCLUSION: Caregivers of MV children are at high risk of poor wellbeing. Our findings highlight the multifactorial determinants of caregiver wellbeing and underscore the need for targeted, family-centred interventions that strengthen child communication skills and enhances caregiver support.
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