The effect of intellectual disability on the presence of comorbid symptoms in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder

Research is limited in examining the presence of comorbid symptoms in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and co-occurring intellectual disability (ID). The current study aimed to expand knowledge in this area by evaluating the presence of comorbid symptoms in children and adolescents with ASD, compared to those with ASD and ID. Comorbid symptoms examined using the Autism Spectrum Disorders-Comorbidity for Children (ASD-C-C) included tantrum behavior, repetitive behavior, worry/depression, avoidant behavior, under-eating, conduct problems, and over-eating. Two hundred and nineteen children and adolescents ranging from 3 to 16 years of age participated in the study. Significant differences were not found between the groups on any of the comorbid symptoms measured. The implications of these findings on treatment are discussed.