An analysis of maladaptive behaviors in persons with autism, PDD-NOS, and mental retardation.

In this study, we examined three maladaptive behaviors, self-injurious behavior (SIB), stereotypies, and aggression in adults with autism, pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and mental retardation. We used a brief functional analysis rating scale. The Questions About Behavioral Functions (QABF), to examine the function of each behavior. Across the three groups, our results indicated that aggression was primarily maintained for attentional reasons and stereotypies for nonsocial reasons. No specific function(s) were found to maintain SIB. These results suggest that the function of a maladaptive behavior may be associated more with the particular maladaptive behavior displayed rather than inclusion in a certain diagnostic group. Implications of findings for assessment and treatment issues are discussed.