Date of Award

6-6-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (PhD)

Department

Clinical Psychology

First Advisor/Committee Member

Thane Erickson

Second Advisor/Committee Member

Beverly J Wilson

Third Advisor/Committee Member

Heather Davis

Abstract

Sensory differences are among the most commonly reported symptoms in children on the autism spectrum and have been linked to both externalizing behaviors and executive functioning challenges. However, few studies have explored the potential mechanisms that underlie these relationships. The present study examined whether inhibitory control mediates the relationship between sensory responsivity and externalizing behaviors in young autistic children, each rated via caregiver-report measures. Participants included 107 caregivers of autistic children between the ages of 5-10 years old. It was hypothesized that higher levels of sensory responsivity would predict greater difficulty with inhibition, which in turn would be associated with more externalizing behaviors, particularly conduct problems and hyperactivity. Results provided partial support for these hypotheses. Sensory seeking and sensory avoidant behaviors were predictive of greater difficulty with inhibition, but these associations emerged primarily at the highest levels of sensory responsivity. Inhibitory control was moderately associated with externalizing behaviors, supporting prior findings in both neurotypical and autistic populations. In regards to indirect effects, inhibitory control only marginally mediated the relationship between sensory responsivity and externalizing behaviors, with the strongest effects observed among children with the highest levels of sensory seeking and avoidance. These findings suggest that extreme patterns of sensory responsivity may place autistic children at increased risk for difficulties with both inhibition and behavioral regulation. While modest in strength, these findings contribute to a growing body of literature highlighting the complex relationships between sensory responsivity, executive functioning, and behavior in children on the autism

spectrum. This study is one of the few to examine all three constructs concurrently, particularly in young autistic children. Given the high prevalence and functional impact of sensory differences and externalizing behaviors, further research is needed to clarify these pathways. These findings highlight the importance of considering both sensory and executive functioning profiles when assessing and addressing behavioral challenges in autistic children. They underscore the need for tailored interventions that target these interconnected areas.

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