Depression and anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders without intellectual disability

Recent studies have shown that rates of depression and anxiety symptoms are elevated among individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) of various ages and IQs and that depression/anxiety symptoms are associated with higher IQ and fewer ASD symptoms. In this study which examined correlates of depression and anxiety symptoms in the full school-age range of children and adolescents (age 6–18) with ASDs and IQs ≥ 70 (n = 95), we also observed elevated rates of depression/anxiety symptoms, but we did not find higher IQ or fewer ASD symptoms among individuals with ASDs and depression or anxiety symptoms. These findings indicate an increased risk for depression/anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents with ASDs without intellectual disability, regardless of age, IQ, or ASD symptoms.

► Parent reported depression and anxiety symptoms in high functioning children and adolescents with ASDs. ► Elevated rates of emotional symptoms. ► No relationships found between emotional symptoms and age, IQ, or autism symptoms.