Impaired executive functions predict repetitive behaviors in toddlers under 36 months old with autism spectrum disorder symptoms
Abstract Background: Executive Functions (EFs) deficit in Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been mainly investigated, while less is known about the EFs in toddlers. The study aimed was to investigate the relationship between EFs deficits and repetitive and restricted behaviors (RRBs) in toddlers with ASD symptoms. Finally, we examined whether EFs deficits were predictive of RRBs.Method: Cross-sectional data were collected from mothers of forty-five toddlers under 36 months old. The modified checklist for autism in toddlers (M-CHAT). The Gilliam autism rating scale (GARS-2), the behavior rating inventory of executive functioning-preschool version (BRIEF-P), and repetitive behavior scale- revised (RBS-R) administered to mothers.Findings: We found significant associations between parent-reported executive functions problems and (1) stereotyped behaviors, (2) self-injurious behaviors, (3) ritualistic behaviors, (4) sameness behaviors, (5) restricted behaviors, (6) compulsive behaviors, and (7) repetitive behaviors total score. There was a lack of association between M-CHAT and social interactions deficits of GARS-2 and the repetitive behaviors total score. Increases in the degree of EFs deficits predicted increments in repetitive behaviors.Discussion: These results support a link between executive disfunction and RRBs. Future research on RRBs in ASD may benefit from focusing on specific executive functioning abilities rather than general categories.