International Meeting for Autism Research (London, May 15-17, 2008): Executive Functioning in Optimal Outcome Children

Friday, May 16, 2008

Champagne Terrace/Bordeaux (Novotel London West)

M. Rosenthal , Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

E. Troyb , Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

M. Helt , Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

K. Tyson , Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

I. M. Eigsti , Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

D. Fein , Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

Background : Despite the finding that children with autism can and do achieve favorable outcomes (e.g. Lovaas, 1987), much skepticism exists regarding whether or not recovery from ASDs is possible. Likewise, no study has of yet thoroughly investigated this phenomenon or studied possible residual cognitive impairment in these children. Objectives : The current study examines the executive functioning (EF) of a small cohort of children who were once diagnosed with an ASD and have since lost their diagnosis (described as "Optimal Outcome"). Methods : Seven Optimal Outcome children, matched on age, sex, and IQ to nine of their typically-developing peers, were contrasted on performance on the DKEFS Tower of London, Color-Word Interference, and Verbal Fluency subtests. Results : Results showed no significant differences on performance between the two groups. Conclusions : Preliminary evidence suggests that the EF of children who achieve Optimal Outcomes is similar to that of their typically-developing peers.

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