AUTISTIC TRAITS IN ADULTS WITH LEARNING-DISABILITIES

Background Although many adults with learning disabilities show featur es of autistic syndrome, there have been very Few population-based stu dies. We explored the prevalence of autistic traits and their associat ion with maladaptive behaviours in a geographically defined population of adults with learning disabilities. Method The carers of 2201 adult s with learning disabilities were interviewed, and information was sou ght concerning aspects of their behaviour and ability individuals were scored according to the number of core autistic traits displayed. The prevalence of autistic traits was examined in respect of aspects of b ehaviour and ability. Results Autistic traits were common among adults with learning disabilities. Those with a higher number of autistic tr aits were more likely to be profoundly learning disabled and demonstra te a wide range of challenging behaviours. Conclusions Many adults wit h learning disabilities demonstrate autistic traits. The relationship of autistic traits with challenging behaviour has major implications i n service planning and delivery.