Children assessed for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Developmental delay and change over time in BDI-2 developmental quotients

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often have overall developmental delays and delays in developmental domains outside of the core ASD symptoms. Research results have been mixed regarding the stability of level of functioning over time in young children with ASD symptoms. Elements that influence development over time in young children with ASD symptoms are an important area of research. Early assessment and intervention is critical to improving prognosis, though effectiveness of intervention depends on a number of factors with some researchers suggesting IQ or overall functioning may influence the degree or rapidity of treatment effects. Using the Battelle Developmental Inventory, this study investigates the effect of overall developmental quotient (DQ) at first assessment on subsequent DQ scores, including scores in communication and adaptive domains in a sample of toddlers evincing significant ASD symptoms.