Exploring predictors of adaptive behaviour of children with autism

This research determined the predictors of the adaptive behaviour of children with autism who are enrolled in special education centres using a descriptive correlational design. There were 40 children with autism whose adaptive behaviour was assessed in terms of their communication, daily living, social and motor skills using the modified Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales (Vineland-3) together with their profile. Data gathered were treated using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that most of the children were males whose average age was 9.6 years who belonged to low-income families and were enrolled in 2 to 3 years. The children had moderately low adaptive skills in all areas of the adaptive behaviour. Moreover, the profiles of the children were not significant predictors of the four adaptive skills being assessed. Thus, it is recommended that other factors may be considered to identify the predictors of the adaptive behaviour of children with autism. Keywords: Children with autism, communication, daily living, motor, social