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Impact of IQ Discrepancy on Executive Function in High-Functioning Autism: Insight into Twice Exceptionality

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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.

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Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Dorothy Zhang, M.S., for her assistance with data collection and manuscript coordination.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. College of Education and Human Development, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA

    M. Layne Kalbfleisch & Ashlee R. Loughan

  2. KIDLAB, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, MS 2A1, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA

    M. Layne Kalbfleisch & Ashlee R. Loughan

  3. Department of Pediatrics, The George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA

    M. Layne Kalbfleisch

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Kalbfleisch, M.L., Loughan, A.R. Impact of IQ Discrepancy on Executive Function in High-Functioning Autism: Insight into Twice Exceptionality. J Autism Dev Disord 42, 390–400 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-011-1257-2

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