Investigation of the Relationship between Physical Problems and Aberrant Behavior Categories in Autism Spectrum Disorder

Objectives:Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental conditiona that manifests with impairments in social interactions and communication and repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. It is known that autism spectrum disorder is accompanied by medical comorbidities, and as the number of accompanying comorbidities increase, the intensity of aberrant behaviors also increases in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Yet, how subgroups of aberrant behaviors relate to physical complaints with unknown primary etiology in autism spectrum disorder has not yet been investigated. Understanding and solving these physical problems can improve the quality of life of individuals with autism spectrum disorder, as interventions should not only address core autism spectrum disorder symptoms but also all physical complaints affecting an individual’s life. Additionally, an examination of such a relation may help better understand the underlying mechanisms of autism spectrum disorder.Materials and Methods:In this study, in 64 individuals with autism spectrum disorder (11 girls) aged between 6 and 18 years, the relationship between the physical complaints subcategory of Child Behavior Checklist and the severity of autism spectrum disorderaccording to Childhood Autism Rating Scale was examined. Additionally, the relationship between physical complaints and the subgroups of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist was evaluated.Results:A significant positive correlation was found between physical symptoms and autism spectrum disorder severity. Among the five factors of this checklist (irritability, agitation, crying; lethargy, social withdrawal; stereotypic behavior; hyperactivity, non-compliance; inappropriate speech), only hyperactivity/non-compliance and inappropriate speech correlated with physical complaints. This relationship was independent of sociodemographic factors such as child age, parental age, and parental education.Conclusion:These findings indicate that children with autism spectrum disorder who exhibit extreme mobility and disobedience are at risk of physical discomfort. In addition to psychiatric and psychologic examinations, a comprehensive and holistic approach should be adopted for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, especially for those individuals experiencing physical problems