Cross-Cultural Comparison of Adaptive Behaviour Between British and Brazilian Clinical Samples With Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Abstract

Adaptive behaviour deficits are limitations in executing daily activities and difficulties in responding to environmental changes, which impact social participation and independence across contexts. Adaptive behaviour measures can be used to guide interventions for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Cross-cultural studies can contribute to the understanding of adaptive functioning of neurodivergence across countries.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare the adaptive behaviour profiles of children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental condition from different countries.

Methods

Forty-eight children with an autism spectrum diagnosis were equally separated into country groups (Brazil and the United Kingdom) and ages (5–10 and 11–17 years old) and were evaluated with the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System, 3rd Edition (ABAS-3), the Parent Form (Ages 5–21), using the raw scores of the questionnaire.

Results

The only scale in which a difference between nationality groups was identified was the self-direction scale, which evaluates skills needed for independence, responsibility and self-control, with older Brazilians scoring higher than their British peers in the same age group.

Conclusion

Similar profiles of adaptive functioning in individuals with ASD were found across cultures, with a singular difference in the self-direction scale. The study's findings shed light on the need for interventions to increase adaptive functioning skills acquisition, regardless of the culture or country in which the individual is.