Exploring Subtypes of Repetitive Behavior in Children with Autism Through Functional Analysis and Wearable Technology: a Pilot Biobehavioral Assessment

Objectives

Prior research has established assessment methodologies, such as functional analysis to identify specific contexts in which restricted and repetitive behavior (RRB) occurs, and measures of heart rate variability (HRV) to index the level of autonomic arousal in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Yet, a gap remains in integrating multiple assessment methodologies to examine the complex underlying mechanisms of RRB. This study piloted a multi-disciplinary approach to assess both the functional behavioral and neurophysiological factors that may underlie occurrences of RRB. The study (a) evaluated the effect of a modified functional analysis protocol on delineating functional subtypes of RRB and (b) explored the effect of using a wearable technology within a functional analysis on identifying the relationship between RRB and HRV.

Method

A single-case alternating treatment design was used to randomly alternate noncontingent low-stimulation and high-stimulation conditions in a modified functional analysis protocol. Simultaneous measurement of RRB and HRV was obtained through direct behavioral observations and a wristband that collects blood volume pulse, respectively. Visual analysis of time series data was used to determine the functional subtypes of RRB, and nonparametric correlational analyses were conducted to determine the association between HRV and RRB.

Results

Findings from a sample of six participants suggest preliminary effectiveness of the assessment protocol in identifying subtypes of RRB and a significant correlation between HRV and RRB.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the potential effect and usability of a wearable technology-aided biobehavioral approach to assess RRB and HRV in individuals with ASD.