Executive Function Deficits in Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Introduction: Multiple studies have described subtle characteristics similar to those of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in first-degree relatives of people with ASD. Individuals with ASD also commonly present deficits in executive functions, which may be associated with their social difficulties. We aimed to evaluate executive functions in parents of children with ASD and their correlation with empathy and systematization indices. Methods: We included 60 individuals divided into two groups: an Experimental Group of parents of children with ASD (n=30) and a Control Group of parents of children without ASD (n=30). Participants were assessed using neuropsychological tests (Coding, Digit Span, Symbol Search, Stroop, Wisconsin, attention test, Trail Making Test) and completed the empathy-systematization scale. Results: The Experimental Group showed lower performance in executive functions, including working memory (working memory index, p=0.02; Coding, p=0.03; Digit Span, p=0.02) and processing speed and attention (Symbol Search, p=0.003; D2 concentration index, p=0.005). No significant differences were observed between the groups in empathy and systemizing quotients. Correlational analyses identified only a few significant associations, of weak magnitude, between these quotients and specific neuropsychological measures. Conclusion: Parents of children with ASD showed poorer executive functioning, without corresponding differences in empathizing and systemizing. These findings may be relevant when developing guidance and support interventions for parents of children with ASD.