Autism, autistic traits and multiple risk behaviours in adolescence: a longitudinal birth cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Multiple risk behaviours (MRBs), typically beginning in adolescence, are associated with increased risk of adverse health and social outcomes. The association between autism and MRBs is little understood.

Methods

Data were from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, an UK-based longitudinal, birth cohort study. Exposures were diagnosed autism and four autistic traits: social communication difficulties, pragmatic language, repetitive behaviours and reduced sociability. Outcomes were participation in up to 14 risk behaviours, including alcohol consumption, smoking, risky sexual behaviours and physical inactivity. Outcome data were collected at ages approximately 12, 14, 16 and 18.

Results

Up to 4300 participants were included in latent basis gro

SUBMITTER: Ly A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10317793 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature