| Although many professionals have noted the high clinical prevalence of anxiety in individuals with autism spectrum disorders, few have studied the issue systematically. The present study examined the prevalence and types of anxiety exhibited by higher functioning adolescents with autism spectrum disorders and factors related to this anxiety. Results suggest that individuals with autism spectrum disorders exhibit significantly higher levels of anxiety than the general population. In particular, adolescents in the study exhibited elevated levels of social anxiety, physical/somatic symptoms, separation/panic, and general anxiety. A correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between Assertion, as measured by the Social Skills Rating System (SSRS), and Social Anxiety, as measured by the Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents (SAS-A). No other significant linear relationships were found between the social skills and social anxiety measures. However, a moderate curvilinear relationship was found between SSRS-Empathy and the various social anxiety measures. Finally, the multiple regression analysis suggests that the proposed model (i.e., the combination of social skills and physiological arousal) is a significant predictor of social anxiety. Results of the study support an emerging body of research demonstrating elevated anxiety levels in higher functioning individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Results of the study are discussed along with implications for both practice and research. |
