Attachment and behaviour/emotional problems in children with autism spectrum disorder

Teague, S.;Newman, L.;Tonge, B.;Gray, K.

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the association between attachment and behavioural/emotional problems in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Method: A mixed-methods cross-sectional design was adopted. Thirty parents of children diagnosed with ASD (n = 26) and thirty parents of children diagnosed with other developmental disabilities (n = 29) completed assessments of child behaviour and emotional problems (DBC), child attachment (CPRS), an autism screening tool (SRS), and an attachment interview (DAI). Children were aged 3.5-12 years. Patterns of attachment and patterns of behaviour and emotional problems will be explored using a series of regression analyses. A qualitative approach will also be used to report findings from the attachment interview conducted with parents. Comparisons between children with and without ASD on attachment and behaviour/emotional problem measures will be explored. Results: Preliminary results indicate an association between attachment and behavioural/emotional problems across groups. Conclusions: The findings of this study will be discussed and summarised for clinical implications, specifically potential targets for interventions in children with and without ASD who have attachment difficulties.

Journal

JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH

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1365-2788

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7-8

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Location

Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Publisher

Wiley-Blackwell

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Publisher Location

Melbourne, VIC, Australia

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