Comparing social skill profiles of children with autism spectrum disorders versus children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: Where the deficits lie

Abstract

Marked socialization impairment is evident in both individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and individuals with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The current study utilizes the Matson Evaluation of Social Skills for Youngsters-II (MESSY-II) to explore similarities and discrepancies in the social skill profiles of children with ASD and children with ADHD ages 6–9 years old and 10–16 years old. Children with ASD and children with ADHD were both found to be significantly deficient in social skills compared to atypically developing peers without an Axis I or Axis II diagnosis; however, specific skill deficits vary between the groups. In particular, children with ASD exhibited a lack of adaptive social skills whereas children with ADHD demonstrated social skill knowledge but an increased level of maladaptive social behavior. The trends of socialization impairment over time were also found to differ in children with ASD versus children with ADHD. While children with ASD remained at similar levels of adaptive social skill impairment over age groups, children with ADHD were found to become more socially impaired in more areas over time. The distinct patterns and trends of social skill deficit found in children with ASD and children with ADHD can inform treatments targeted toward the specific deficits observed within each disorder.