Helles, A., Gillberg, I. C., Gillberg, C. and Billstedt, E. (2017) Asperger syndrome in males over two decades: Quality of life in relation to diagnostic stability and psychiatric comorbidity. Autism, 21(4), pp. 458-469. (doi: 10.1177/1362361316650090) (PMID:27233289)
Full text not currently available from Enlighten.
Abstract
This study examined objective quality of life (work, academic success, living situation, relationships, support system) and subjective quality of life (Sense of Coherence and Short-Form Health Survey-36) in an adult sample of males (n = 50, mean age: 30 years) with Asperger syndrome diagnosed in childhood and followed prospectively over two decades. The association between long-term diagnostic stability of an autism spectrum disorder and/or comorbid psychiatric disorders with quality of life was also examined. The results showed great variability as regards quality of life. The subsample that no longer fulfilled an autism spectrum disorder had full-time jobs or studies (10/11), independent living (100%), and reported having two or more friends (100%). In the stable autism spectrum disorder group, 41% had full-time job or studies, 51% lived independently, and 33% reported two or more friends, and a significant minority had specialized employments, lived with support from the government, or had no friends. Academic success was positively correlated with IQ. A majority of the total group scored average Sense of Coherence scores, and the mean for Short-Form Health Survey-36 was above average regarding psychical health and below average regarding mental health. Stability of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis was associated with objective but not subjective quality of life, while psychiatric comorbidity was associated with subjective but not objective quality of life.
| Item Type: | Articles |
|---|---|
| Additional Information: | The study was supported by funding from the Centre for Research and Development in Region Gavleborg and the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinic in Gavle, VG Region Scientific Fund, AnnMarie and Per Ahlqvist Foundation, the Jerring Fund, Wilhelm and Martina Lundgren Foundation, Petter Silfverskiold Foundation, Golje Foundation, the Swedish Child Neuropsychiatry Science Foundation, and the Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre. |
| Status: | Published |
| Refereed: | Yes |
| Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | Gillberg, Professor Christopher |
| Authors: | Helles, A., Gillberg, I. C., Gillberg, C., and Billstedt, E. |
| College/School: | College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing |
| Journal Name: | Autism |
| Publisher: | SAGE |
| ISSN: | 1362-3613 |
| ISSN (Online): | 1461-7005 |
University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record
Altmetric
Altmetric