Evaluation of Adaptive Behavior in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Dimensions and Contextual Factors

The study evaluated adaptive behavior in children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using the ICAP as the assessment tool. A total of 105 subjects from Uruguay and Spain, intentionally selected from middle socioeconomic families, participated. The results revealed significant correlations between ICAP factors and symptomatic characteristics of ASD, particularly in the areas of motor skills, social and communication skills, and personal and community living. Significant age-related differences were also found, with higher scores in adolescents compared to children in the communication and language dimension. Geographical differences were noted in motor skills and personal living skills. These findings underscore the importance of understanding and addressing variations in adaptive behavior within the autism spectrum, highlighting the need for targeted interventions that promote development and quality of life for these individua