Autistic traits and their relationship with internalization-externalization symptoms in ADHD and SLD

Abstract

Objectives: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) show frequent comorbidities and often contain overlapping symptom clusters. This study aims to investigate the autistic traits (ATs) in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), specific learning disorder (SLD), and comorbid patients, and it hypothesizes that increased autistic features are associated with increased internalization and externalization symptoms. Materials and Methods: Data from 49 ADHD, 58 SLD, 48 ADHD+SLD, and 56 typically developing children were included in this study. A semi-structured clinical interview was used for diagnosis. The Social Responsiveness Scale and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire were administered to families of children. Results: The study determined that ATs were more common in children with ADHD or SLD than in their typically developing peers and more common in the ADHD+SLD group than in the single-diagnosis groups. ATs are associated with increased internalization and externalization symptoms in NDDs. Conclusion: ATs are more likely to be seen in NDDs other than autism compared to healthy controls, and psychopathologies are more common in people with ATs. Comprehensive assessments considering clusters of symptoms may be important for exploring common etiologic backgrounds and patient-based treatments. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.