Comparison of Diagnostic Profiles of Deaf and Hearing Children with a Diagnosis of Autism.

Researchers compared how autism looks in deaf children versus hearing children. They studied 106 children using a special interview designed for deaf children. Most autism signs were the same in both groups, but deaf autistic children showed some differences in how they interact with other children - they were less likely to respond when other kids tried to play with them or engage in pretend play together.

This UK study compared autism diagnostic profiles between 65 deaf and 41 hearing children using the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised-Deaf adaptation. The research addressed a critical gap, as deaf children face high rates of misdiagnosis and delayed autism diagnosis. Results showed most diagnostic items were similar between groups, but autistic deaf children demonstrated specific differences in peer relationships - they were less likely to respond to other children's social approaches or engage in imaginative play with peers. These findings highlight the importance of considering hearing status when assessing autism, particularly regarding social interaction patterns that may manifest differently in deaf versus hearing children.

Clinicians should consider hearing status when assessing peer relationship difficulties in autism diagnosis. The findings suggest that while core autism features remain consistent, specific social interaction patterns may manifest differently in deaf children, requiring adapted assessment approaches and interpretation.

Single cohort study from one country. Relatively small sample size (106 participants). Study type and specific methodology not fully described. No information provided about hearing loss severity, communication methods, or other potentially relevant factors.

There is limited research comparing the presentation of autism in deaf and hearing children and young people. These comparisons are important to facilitate accurate diagnosis, as rates of misdiagnosis and delay in diagnosis amongst deaf children and young people are high. The aim of this study was to compare diagnostic assessment profiles of a UK cohort of autistic deaf and hearing children and young people. The Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised-Deaf adaptation was completed with the parents of 106 children and young people (deaf children = 65; hearing children = 41).

The majority of items explored showed no significant differences between deaf and hearing children and young people. Differences were found in peer relationships, where autistic deaf participants were less likely to respond to the approaches of other children or play imaginatively with peers. These findings need to be taken into consideration by clinicians in the assessment process.