Adaptive Behavior, Self-Determination, and Health in Autistic Young Adults

Adaptive behavior, self-determination, and health are important areas of body functions and activities identified by autistic adults as priorities for research. Past research has suggested that autistic adults have high support needs in adaptive behavior and self-determination, and have poor physical and mental health outcomes. This study included 211 autistic young adults 18-25 years old (Mage = 20.93) and their caregivers who completed questionnaires and interviews on adaptive behavior, self-determination, and physical and mental health. Correlations were examined among adaptive behavior, maladaptive behavior, self-determination, and health outcomes controlling for IQ. Adult self-reports of self-determination capacity were associated with maladaptive behavior. Reports of self-determination by caregivers were associated with adaptive behavior and maladaptive behavior. Caregiver reports of maladaptive behaviors were associated with physical health outcomes. Findings provide an initial understanding of activities, participation, body functions, and their interactions among autistic young adults.