In a recent study published in the journal Autism Research, a group of researchers examined the association between family history of neurodevelopmental (NDD) and neuropsychiatric (NPD) disorders and the developmental outcomes in younger siblings (SIBS) of children with autism.
Autism spectrum disorder (autism) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social and communication impairments, sensory sensitivities, repetitive behaviors, and stereotyped interests. The prevalence of autism in the United States is estimated at 2.78%. Having an autistic relative increases the likelihood of recurrence within the family, with greater genetic similarity correlating with higher likelihood.
Additionally, families with a history of NDD and NPD disorders, such as intellectual disability, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, and depression, also show elevated odds of autism. Further research is needed to better understand the influence of family history on the diverse phenotypic outcomes in siblings of children with autism, which could improve early identification and intervention strategies.
This study examined the association between family history of neurodevelopmental (NDD) and neuropsychiatric (NPD) disorders and the developmental outcomes in younger siblings of children with autism. The researchers found that family history variables explained 7% and 5% of the variability in the ADOS-2 social affect (SA) and restrictive and repetitive behaviors (RRB) scores, respectively. Family history also accounted for 17% and 14% of the variance in verbal and nonverbal IQ scores. Having a relative with intellectual disability (ID) or an anxiety disorder was associated with lower verbal and nonverbal IQ scores, while a history of depression was associated with higher scores.
The study also found that family history variables explained 14% and 10% of the variance in VABS-II Communication and Socialization scores, respectively. Communication scores were negatively associated with family histories of ID, anxiety, and bipolar disorders and positively associated with depression. Socialization scores were negatively associated with family histories of anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorders.
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Family History of Mental Health Disorders Linked to Developmental Outcomes in Siblings of Autistic Children https://t.co/3tVg0Fh99C #rehabnearme
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