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Symptoms Of Autism In Children Referred For Early Intervention: Implications For Theory, Diagnosis, And Research, Lisa Daniell Wiggins

Psychology Theses

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders that affect social, communication, and behavioral development. Social impairments have been implicated as primary symptoms of ASD and communication impairments are often cited as initial concerns among parents. Yet there is an inconsistency in the literature regarding the existence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviors (RR) in very young children (i.e., those younger than 4 years) with ASD and the association between RR and sensory dysfunction. The purpose of the current project was to identify social deficits that most distinguish very young children with ASD, assess whether RR are present in very young …