dc.description.abstract | An observational study was carried out to investigate the behaviours displayed by Higher
Functioning Autistic Spectrum Disorder children within a task environment. The
computer based task, where the only factor being manipulated was degree of difficulty,
tested executive functions of memory and planning. Behaviours were observed and
analysed both within and between groups, the ASD participants being tested and
compared with a typical developing age matched control group and, within the ASD
group, participants with autism being compared with those participants diagnosed with
Asperger’s Syndrome. Executive functioning and a possible relationship with adaptive
behaviour was also investigated using standard scores obtained from the Vineland
Adaptive Behaviour Scale in relation to final level achieved and also number of errors
committed. The behaviours observed were classified at both general and more specific
levels, facilitating analysis that captured the complexities of the behaviours displayed
both at group and individual levels. Results showed some statistically significant results
between the ASD group and control group, with the ASD group displaying more
examples of negative behaviours than the control group, with more extreme behaviours
(cross and tearful) being of importance. The within group analysis proved not significant
with differences being attributed to individual rather than group effect. No relationship
was found between executive functioning and adaptive behaviours. It was concluded that
the behaviours of ASD participants were affected by task difficulty. Moreover, the
findings reinforced the importance of acknowledging and recording the heterogeneity
encompassed within the term ASD, and the importance of recognising and valuing the
individual within the analytical framework. | en |