Background Autism has been considered a ‘male‐dominant’ condition. However, recent research suggests that autistic females are underdiagnosed, misdiagnosed, and later diagnosed. Females may also have different more nuanced behavioral profiles. To examine diagnosis rates of females, we used 20 years state‐wide data to characterize historical trends in the autism determine whether proportion diagnosed with changed over time. Methods Data were drawn from 10,247 participants (males = 8,319,...

Adaptive behavior, self-determination, and health are important areas of body functions activities identified by autistic adults as priorities for research. Past research has suggested that have high support needs in adaptive behavior poor physical mental outcomes. This study included 211 young 18–25 years old ( M age = 20.93) their caregivers who completed questionnaires interviews on health. Correlations were examined among maladaptive outcomes controlling IQ. Adult self-reports...

Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) demonstrate difficulties aspects of executive function (EF) and adaptive behaviour across the lifespan. There is a current lack information regarding how these relate to employment outcomes in adulthood. This study evaluated EF profiles individuals DS during early adulthood association between areas functioning status.Parents or caregivers primarily young adults (n = 31; mean chronological age 25.9 years; SD 5.92) completed Vineland Adaptive Behavior...

Abstract The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy a comprehensive program model originally developed by National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder (NPDC). Sixty elementary schools with 486 participants were randomly assigned an NPDC and services as usual condition (SAU). Significantly greater changes in quality occurred inclusive programs compared SAU schools. Teachers reported using more evidence-based practices (EBPs) implemented EBPs significantly...

Adults with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability often do not engage in healthy levels of physical activity despite its many benefits. We conducted a randomized control trial to evaluate the effectiveness feasibility Step It Up program, which used supported self-management strategies, on daily step counts, health measures, perceived quality life for adults disability. Forty participants, ages 18 57, were randomly assigned or intervention group. Males accounted 70.6%...

The Individualized Education Program (IEP) goal attainment is a key indicator of achievement in educational performance for students with disabilities. Yet, little known how well autistic high school are meeting their IEP goals and factors affecting attainment. This study examined the relationship between self-determination, positive predictor post-school success, using secondary data from center on Secondary Students Autism Spectrum Disorder. Multilevel modeling was used to account nested...

Autism Focused Intervention Resources and Modules (AFIRM) are a set of self-paced, online learning modules designed to disseminate information about the 27 evidence-based practices identified through large-scale review focused intervention for individuals with autism. In this study, we used descriptive statistics an analysis variance analyze more than 67,000 pre-tests completed by over 22,000 school-based AFIRM users determine whether there differences occupation in (a) selection practices,...

Autistic people are more likely to consider suicide than non-autistic people, with transition-aged youth (ages 16-21 years) at potentially the highest risk. Research has also shown that difficulties executive functioning (e.g., organization, sequencing, and decision-making) may heighten risk among but it is not clear whether this true for autistic people. This study explored question by asking 183 about their experience suicidal behavior examining relationship between responses additional...

Longitudinal growth modeling was utilized to examine adaptive behavior over eight years across the three time points (i.e., ages 2-10). Seventy-six parents completed Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales interviews of behavior. Child participants standardized developmental testing and an executive function task in toddlerhood Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule all points. Growth models were specified for communication, daily living skills, socialization domains Mental age a significant...

We tested the efficacy of a comprehensive intervention program designed for high school students across autism spectrum, Center on Secondary Education Students with Autism (CSESA) model, in cluster randomized control trial involving 60 schools three states (California, North Carolina, Wisconsin), implementation occurring over 2-year period. examined outcomes schools, ( N = 547), and families. At conclusion study, CSESA had significantly higher quality than services-as-usual (SAU) schools. In...

Self‐determination refers to an individual being a causal agent in their daily activities, including the ability express own needs, interests, and wants, make choices, set goals. is critical during adolescence has been linked positive educational outcomes individuals with disabilities. Few studies have characterized measurement of self‐determination adolescents autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The purpose current study was (a) examine agreement across American Institutes for Research...

The purpose of this study was to examine influences on the implementation a school-based comprehensive program for autistic children. Following conceptual framework suggested by Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) model, variables from outer context, inner and also that were part explored. An index approach employed assessing implementation. larger cluster randomized control trial took place in 39 elementary schools southeastern state within United States. Variables...

The purpose of the study was to examine quality high school programs for students with autism spectrum disorder in United States. Autism Program Environment Rating Scale–Middle/High School used rate 60 schools located three geographic locations States (CA, NC, and WI). Findings indicated that total rating across slightly above adequate criterion. Higher ratings occurred program environment, learning climate, family participation, teaming domains. However, intervention domains related...

Adults with autism and co-occurring intellectual disability engage in low levels of physical activity are at increased risk developing secondary health conditions attributed to inactivity compared adults the general population. Few studies have examined use objective measures characterize for disability. The current study aimed examine relationship between activity, using an tracker, quality life In study, 38 disability, ages 18–55, wore a Fitbit Flex 2® tracker 1 week, completed Quality...

The present study examined the employment landscape for 129 autistic young adults. Data were collected over multiple waves including high school and early adulthood. Parents participated in interviews responded to questions regarding adult outcomes, on-the-job supports, job match, overall satisfaction. predictive relationship between in-school variables outcomes was examined. Findings indicate 50% of sample had at least one working independently community pay. reported need both formal...

The present study examined the transition component of Individualized Education Program for 62 secondary students with autism. Plans were coded using a rubric adapted from Indicator 13 Individuals Disabilities Improvement Act. Findings indicated mean plan score 10.5 out 20.0, range 3.0 to 20.0. Strengths noted in Transition Services, Course Study and Assessment as areas relative need. Student characteristics—including adaptive behavior, IQ, self-determination—were associated components...

This study examined growth trajectories of teacher-reported adaptive behavior in a diverse sample adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. The participants were 244 between the ages 14 and 21 years who assessed at up to four time points across two half high school. Demographic variables (age, sex, race, maternal education), phenotypic characteristics (intelligence quotient, severity) school factors (location school, quality) collected. Growth mixture modeling was used identify distinct...

Women in Applied Sciences and Engineering (WISE) Investments is an innovative program that introduces middle school high girls to the exciting world of engineering technology. Funded by a National Science Foundation grant, WISE seeks provide intervention at both levels showing has real applications; demonstrating problem-solving approach engineers; correcting misperceptions; providing positive information role models. Female students grades 6 through 12 were recruited commit one year where...