Development of low- and high-functioning autistic children

J Child Psychol Psychiatry. 1992 Mar;33(3):607-16. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-7610.1992.tb00894.x.

Abstract

Aspects of developmental sequences and structures were assessed in low- and high-functioning autistic and non-autistic developmentally disabled children. Specific developmental issues examined included sequences, regressions and profiles. Classification into the high- or low-functioning groups was based on a full scale IQ cutoff of 50. In general, there were few differences in the sequences of development among the groups. However, the autistic children were more likely than non-autistic children to display developmental regressions and unevenness across developmental domains. These developmental peculiarities were more pronounced in the low- as compared to high-functioning autistic children. These findings are discussed with regard to issues of developmental processes, classification and autism.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Autistic Disorder*
  • Child
  • Communication
  • Developmental Disabilities*
  • Humans
  • Language Development
  • Regression, Psychology