Arranging and ordering in autism spectrum disorder: Characteristics, severity, and environmental correlates

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability

Department

Psychology

ISSN

1366-8250

Volume

38

Issue

3

DOI

10.3109/13668250.2013.812192

First Page

242

Last Page

255

Publication Date

1-1-2013

Abstract

Background There is a need for a more accurate characterisation of higher level restricted and repetitive behaviour (RRB) in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including why it might be considered problematic and events associated with its occurrence.

Method: We selected one form of higher level RRB—arranging and ordering—that was rated as severe for a large percentage of the population sampled. We interviewed 20 students’ teachers and conducted naturalistic observations for 15 of those students.

Results: The characteristics of arranging and ordering varied across, and sometimes within, individuals. Problems associated with compulsive-like behaviour also varied, with several unanticipated reported problems. With the exception of attention, social consequences were relatively infrequent.

Conclusions: These data highlight the need for research on the assessment and treatment of arranging and ordering and clinical attention to compulsive-like behaviour in ASD. Interviews and naturalistic observations are useful for structuring additional observations and analyses.

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS