Screening for autism spectrum disorder in deaf adults with intellectual disability: Feasibility and accuracy of two autism screening instruments

Abstract

Abstract backgroundThere is a lack of autism screening instruments for deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) adults with intellectual disability. AimsThis study examined the diagnostic validity of the Pervasive Developmental Disorder in Mental Retardation Scale and the Diagnostic Behavioral Assessment for autism spectrum disorder – Revised in this rare population. Methods and participants56 DHH adults with intellectual disability living in three specialized therapeutic communities were examined, 9 of whom met criteria for autism. Outcomes and resultsWith minimal adaptions regarding item interpretation, both tools showed good diagnostic and high convergent validity. Items probing for difficulties in reciprocal social interaction and restricted interests were discriminant between individuals with and without autism. ConclusionThese data suggest that both autism screening tools are feasible and psychometrically sound when used with appropriate adaptations for DHH adults with intellectual disability.