Developmental changes of autism spectrum disorder symptoms among preschoolers (1–7 years)

The age-related manifestation of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) symptoms at an early age is important, since such knowledge allows to choose the best intervention methods. Data were collected on 242 1–2-year-olds (131 with ASD, 84 normal, and 27 with DD). These data were combined with previously obtained data on 3–7-year-olds belonging to the same 3 groups (in total 1.749 children). Using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, we obtained a 3-factor model of ASD symptoms for 1–2-year-olds, consisting of 3 factor-scales: communication impairment, sensory disintegration, and hyperactivity. The structure of the model and its equivalence were confirmed for 1–2- and 3–7-year-old children. Three identified symptoms accompany children with ASD throughout preschool age. It has been revealed that hyperactivity is a common symptom inherent in 1–2-year-olds with both ASD and DD. It was found that in 1–2-year-old children, the most pronounced symptoms of ASD are communication disorders and hyperactivity; in 3–5-year-olds — sensory disintegration, and in 6–7-year-olds — hyperactivity increases and sensory impairments decrease compared to 3–5-year-old children. It was also found that hyperactivity is higher in boys regardless of age; 1–2-year-old boys have higher communication impairments than girls, and at the age of 3–7 years, conversely, communication problems are more common in girls. The revealed patterns in ASD symptoms manifestation are due to nervous system development, are subject to age and gender differences, and depend on neurophysiological, behavioral, and environmental factors. Taking these patterns into account will improve intervention methods and create individualized developmental programs for preschoolers with ASD.

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