Clinical Report: Association Between Parental Broad Autism Phenotype Characteristics and Executive Function
Overview
This study examines the relationship between parental Broad Autism Phenotype (BAP) traits and executive function (EF) performance in families with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Findings indicate that parents of children with ASD exhibit higher BAP traits and demonstrate significant differences in EF performance compared to parents of typically developing children.
Background
The Broad Autism Phenotype (BAP) encompasses subtle autism-like traits observed in relatives of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Understanding the impact of these traits on executive function is crucial, as executive dysfunction is a common feature in ASD. This study aims to fill the gap in research regarding the association between parental BAP traits and EF performance.
Data Highlights
Measure
Parents of ASD Children
Parents of Typically Developing Children
Statistical Significance
BAPQ Score (Fathers)
41.21%
15%
χ2 = 31.628, p < 0.01
BAPQ Score (Mothers)
26.25%
8.37%
χ2 = 25.764, p < 0.01
Flanker Task Reaction Time
528.95 ± 78.90 ms
426.80 ± 18.40 ms
T = 15.639, p < 0.01
2-Back Incongruent Reaction Time
537.60 ± 80.21 ms
665.70 ± 137.17 ms
T = 6.715, p = 0.001
2-Back Accuracy
0.947 ± 0.037
0.983 ± 0.016
T = 16.875, p < 0.01
Key Findings
Parents of children with ASD had significantly higher BAPQ scores than parents of typically developing children.
Fathers of ASD children scored 41.21% on the BAPQ compared to 15% for fathers of controls (p < 0.01).
Mothers of ASD children scored 26.25% on the BAPQ compared to 8.37% for mothers of controls (p < 0.01).
Parents of ASD children exhibited prolonged reaction times on the Flanker task (528.95 ms vs. 426.80 ms, p < 0.01).
Parents of ASD children showed faster reaction times but reduced accuracy on the 2-Back task compared to controls.
BAPQ scores correlated with slower responses on the Flanker task and reaction times on the 2-Back task.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians should consider parental BAP traits when assessing family functioning and support needs.
Conclusion
The study highlights a significant association between parental BAP traits and executive function challenges.
