Anxiety, social deficits, and loneliness in youth with autism spectrum disorders

J Autism Dev Disord. 2009 Jul;39(7):1006-13. doi: 10.1007/s10803-009-0713-8. Epub 2009 Mar 4.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore relationships among anxiety, loneliness, and degree of social skill deficit in a sample of youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Participants (N = 20) were between 7 and 14 years of age, verbal, and had low average or higher assessed intelligence (average IQ = 92 +/- 14.41). Youth who self-reported elevated levels of anxiety reported greater feelings of social loneliness. Those participants earning above average total anxiety scores reported significantly more loneliness than those with less anxiety (F = 6.60, p < .05). A significant relationship between parent-reported child withdrawal and depression and social disability also was found. Recommendations for assessment of co-occurring psychiatric problems in youth with ASD are offered.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anxiety / diagnosis
  • Anxiety / psychology*
  • Autistic Disorder / diagnosis
  • Autistic Disorder / psychology*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Loneliness / psychology*
  • Male
  • Personality Assessment
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Social Behavior*