EPA-1171 – High Functional Autism as Predictor of Bullying and Suicidal Risk in Ukrainian Schools

Abstract

Introduction:

School abuse is an important problem for Ukrainian society; more than 80% of children are bullied in different ways. It is supposed that children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are especially vulnerable to bullying.

Object:

We examined 58 adolescents (58.6% boys; 41.4% girls) at the age of 12 to 15 years old (M=14.21; SD=0.94) whose parents requested for medical assistance due to the bullying of their children in school.

The aims of the study:

To establish whether autism spectrum disorder is a risk factor of becoming a victim of bullying in school.

Method:

All children were examined with the use of Autism Diagnostic Interview, Revised (ADI-R) and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), Columbia–Suicide Severity Rating Scale for children (C-SSRS), Bullying Victimization Scale. The adaptive behavior level of scholars was assessed by Vineland. Diagnosis was made on DSM-4-TR criteria.

Results:

Among children who were victims of bullying: autism was diagnosed in 6 adolescents; ASD in 16; 14 had violations in social reciprocity (domain A in ADI-R), this adolescents fulfilled the criteria for ADHD; 5 children (3 girls and 2 boys) were the victims of sex abuse. Adolescents that were bullied had a high level of suicidal ideations (it was higher among girls in all age groups). Adolescents with PDD had higher suicidal ideation rating than adolescents with ADHD (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

ASD, ADHD and sex abuse in children increasing risk to become a victim of bullying and suicidal risk in adolescents.