Assessing neuropsychological profiles in adolescent females with suspected autism spectrum disorder: a multiple case study.
Pérez-Flores Javier, Torralvo-Suárez Irene, Nieto Antonieta
What this study means for families
Researchers studied three teenage girls with possible autism using detailed brain function tests. They found that all three girls showed signs of autism, but each had different strengths and challenges. The girls had particular difficulties with remembering things, planning tasks, and controlling emotions. These challenges affected their daily life at home and school.
The study shows that girls with autism need support that considers their individual brain function differences, not just the main autism symptoms.
Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract. This is not a substitute for reading the original paper.
Research summary
This multiple case study examined neuropsychological profiles in three adolescent females with suspected autism spectrum disorder using comprehensive standardized assessments. The study was conducted at a support organization in Southern Tenerife and employed multiple validated instruments including the ADI-R, WISC-V, and various executive functioning tests. Results revealed significant ASD markers across all participants, with notable variability in neuropsychological capabilities. Key findings included deficits in working memory and executive functioning that impacted daily functioning and emotional regulation.
Additional challenges were identified in verbal and visual learning, as well as spontaneous recall difficulties. The study emphasizes the importance of considering these neuropsychological characteristics when developing interventions for females with ASD.
Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract. This is not a substitute for reading the original paper.
Key findings
- 1
Significant ASD markers identified across all three participants
Confidence: moderateRelevance: Supports diagnostic assessment in adolescent females - 2
Substantial variability in neuropsychological capabilities, particularly in working memory and executive functioning
Confidence: moderateRelevance: Highlights need for individualized assessment and intervention approaches - 3
Deficits impacted daily functioning and emotional regulation
Confidence: moderateRelevance: Important for understanding functional impacts beyond core symptoms - 4
Challenges identified in verbal and visual learning, and spontaneous recall difficulties
Confidence: moderateRelevance: Relevant for educational planning and learning support strategies
Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract. This is not a substitute for reading the original paper.
Clinical implications
Findings suggest comprehensive neuropsychological assessment is important for adolescent females with suspected ASD. Interventions should address individual neuropsychological profiles, particularly working memory and executive functioning deficits. Assessment results can inform educational accommodations and daily living support strategies. Emphasizes need for personalized approaches beyond addressing core autism symptoms.
Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract. This is not a substitute for reading the original paper.
Limitations
Very small sample size (n=3) limits generalizability. Case study design provides descriptive rather than comparative data. No control group or follow-up data. Limited demographic information provided. Single-site study may not represent broader populations of adolescent females with suspected ASD.
Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract. This is not a substitute for reading the original paper.
Original abstract
This study evaluates the neuropsychological profiles of three adolescent females with suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The study was conducted at My Blue Side, a support organization in Southern Tenerife. The research included a detailed assessment using standardized neuropsychological tests to identify the neuropsychological characteristics associated with ASD in adolescent females. The primary objective was to delineate the neuropsychological profile of each participant and its relationship with their daily functioning.
Three participants underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment incorporating the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R), the Autonomous Scale for the Detection of Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism, the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V), the D2 test, Five-Digit Test (FDT), Spain-Complutense Verbal Learning Test (TAVCI), Rey Complex Figure (RCF) and Executive Functioning Questionnaire (EFECO). The study design aimed to provide a thorough understanding of each participant's neuropsychological profile and its potential impact on their daily functioning. The results indicated significant ASD markers across the participants, with substantial variability in neuropsychological capabilities, particularly in working memory and executive functioning. These deficits impacted daily functioning and emotional regulation.
The assessments also highlighted challenges in verbal and visual learning, as well as difficulties with spontaneous recall. These findings underscore the need for interventions to consider these neuropsychological characteristics and their relationship with the daily challenges faced by females with ASD and their families, beyond the core symptoms of the disorder.
Evidence Grade
emerging
Grade assigned by AutismInsights based on study type and published abstract.
Study Details
- Type
- Case Report
- Journal
- Applied neuropsychology. Child
- Year
- 2026
- PMID
- 39576746
- DOI
- 10.1080/21622965.2024.2432335
MeSH Terms