The early detection of Autistic Spectrum Disorder using the Autistic Behavioural Indicators Instrument (ABII)

Study 1:  children aged 12-48 month-old who are "high risk" for ASD.  Risk will be assessed based on either 1) positive screen for ASD traits on the a screening measure, 2) an older sibling that has a formal diagnosis of ASD in the family, 3) Genetic risk (e.g. a diagnosis of Rett’ Disorder, Fragile X Syndrome, Prader-Willi Syndrome, Angelman Syndrome).
Study 2:  children aged 2-12 years who have received a formal diagnosis of ASD

The purpose of this project is to establish the utility of an Autism Specific instrument (Autistic Behavioural Indicators Instrument – ABII; Ward & Gilmore, 2010) in detecting young children with Autism. The research will also investigate whether the ABII is more accurate in predicting and identifying young children with Autism compared to other measures that are currently being used. 

You and your child may benefit from participation in this research if you choose to receive feedback regarding your child’s motor (fine and gross), language (receptive and expressive), and cognitive development, if their performance suggests developmental delay.  Early identification of potential developmental delay will facilitate earlier intervention for you child and may improve their developmental outcomes.  It is also expected that this project will have long-term benefits for children with Autism and their families because the results may facilitate earlier identification and diagnosis, and consequently result in earlier entry into appropriate intervention programs.
Participation in this project will not result in a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

Samantha Ward
samantha@steppingstonesforlife.com.au or s24.ward@student.qut.edu.au
Ph: 3902 1572
www.steppingstonesforlife.com.au
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