Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Alternative Format

Degree

Master of Arts

Program

Education

Supervisor

Duerden, Emma G.

Abstract

Anxiety is the most prevalent comorbidity among children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The phenotypical presentation of anxiety among children and adolescents with ASD is lacking within the literature. This study sought to differentiate behavioral phenotypes associated with anxiety in children with ASD from anxiety in typically-developing children. Participants completed a series of child and parent reports measuring anxiety, depressive symptoms, ASD symptom severity, emotional problems, parental stress, and socioeconomic factors. Three distinct anxiety profiles, including moderate, high, and low, were identified. Results demonstrated that depression is the strongest predictor of high anxiety among children and adolescents with ASD. Additionally, frequent peer problems result in reports of high anxiety and depressive symptoms in children and adolescents with ASD. Early intervention to develop and strengthen social and communication skills is critical to minimize peer problems and manage depression among children and adolescents with ASD who have anxiety.

Summary for Lay Audience

Children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience difficulty with social communication and interaction, use of expression and language, and can become fixated on specific behaviors or interests. Anxiety is the most common mental health disorder among children and adolescents with ASD. A clear understanding of the outward, observable presentation of anxiety among children and adolescents with ASD is lacking within the academic community. The current study aimed to discriminate between the behavioral presentation of anxiety in ASD and anxiety experienced by children and teens without ASD. Additionally, this work sought to identify anxiety symptoms that explain the differences observed between those with and without anxiety. Two-hundred sixty-two children and adolescents, with and without ASD, completed questionnaires measuring anxiety, depression, ASD symptom severity, emotional issues, parental practices and stress, and socioeconomic factors. Measures were completed by participants and their parents for comparison. Three unique anxiety groups were identified, including youth with moderate, high, and low levels of anxiety. Results show that depressive symptoms, such as unhappiness and isolation, are the strongest indicator of high anxiety among children and adolescents with ASD. As well, frequent peer relationship problems led to reports of high anxiety and depressive symptoms in children and adolescents with ASD. Mental health professionals, such as registered psychotherapists or psychologists, should assess for and treat depressive symptoms in clients with ASD. Furthermore, early treatment among children and adolescents with ASD and anxiety should aim to develop and strengthen social and communication skills in order to reduce negative interactions with peers and manage depressive symptoms.

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