title: Impact of IQ discrepancy on executive function in high-functioning autism: insight into twice exceptionality.
abstract: We examined the impact of IQ discrepancy (IQD) within (1) and above (1+) one standard deviation on executive function in HFA using the BRIEF. We hypothesized that IQD would benefit executive function. IQD 1 is hallmarked by deficits in BRIEF indices and subscales inhibit, shift, initiate, working memory, planning and organization, and monitor (MANCOVA, p < .003, corrected). As IQD increases to 1+, deficits are fewer, corresponding to subscales inhibit, shift, and initiate. Pearson correlations (p < .004, corrected) identify significant relationships for FSIQ and BRIEF Global Composite (r = -.66, p = .002) and Metacognition subscales plan/organize (r = -.64, p = .003) and monitor (r = -.63, p = .004). Results suggest IQD 1+ favoring verbal IQ may support these aspects of executive function in HFA.
authors.affiliation: College of Education and Human Development, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA. mkalbfle@gmu.edu
authors.forename: M Layne
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Kalbfleisch
authors.forename: Ashlee R
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: Loughan
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000523:psychology*; D002648:Child; D056344:Executive Function; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007360:Intelligence; D008297:Male; D008570:Memory, Short-Term; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011340:Problem Solving; D014888:Wechsler Scales