Older siblings of autistic children more prone to hyperactivity--study

Families dealing with autistic children, especially the older siblings of such toddlers are found to experience communication, social and behavior related abnormalities, claimed the study conducted by researchers from the University of Oregon's school psychology program.

According to the researchers, the older siblings facing several adjustments in their day-to-day life are more prone to attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD).

"Our findings are rather positive overall, these kids may start school OK, at least those from healthy families, but they may demonstrate difficulties over time.

“However, it has been shown that around 30 percent of siblings of autistic children have some associated difficulties in behavior, learning or development." noted McIntyre, an affiliate of the UO's Center for Excellence and Developmental Disabilities, Education, Research and Service.

Details of the study
The study looked at 20 New York-based families with a preschooler autistic child and older elementary-school going siblings.

During the study, the experimental group constituting of autism-dealing families was compared with a control group of 23 families with no autistic child.

Traits like sibling bonding, behavioral and academic performance in the older siblings from both the groups were studied by the researchers.

Results of the study
The study found no significant difference in the social skills of the children with autistic siblings as compared to those in the control group.

However, the teachers of the children reported some behavioral problems with the siblings of children suffering from autism.

The problems resembled the symptoms of hyperactivity, though at a lower level, mainly caused due to lack of attention by parents and elders at home, said the researchers.

The study further revealed that with the care required for an autistic child, the chances of an unaffected child getting noticed in the shuffle are usually low, leading to hyperactive traits in the normal child.

"Children with siblings with autism may be experiencing some sub-clinical symptoms of hyperactivity or attention problems. Parents didn't report seeing such things at home.

“Teachers see these children in a more structured environment. Siblings of children with autism may be at heightened risk for developing problems, potentially over time," concluded Intyre.

The study was published in the March issue of the journal Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities.