Post-hoc pairwise testing identified four attentional strengths with significantly higher rates in ASD than in ADHD. No differences were found between the ADHD and ASD groups in SWAN weakness scores, symptoms, or hyperactive/impulse control strengths however, autistic children had higher rates of attentional strengths. We used the symmetry/ordering factor on the Toronto Obsessive-Compulsive Scale as a measure of perseveration/perfectionism. Impairment was assessed with the Columbia Impairment Scale. The Autism-Spectrum Quotient Switching factor served as a measure of cognitive flexibility. We used the Strengths and Weaknesses of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity-symptoms and Normal-behaviors (SWAN) rating scale to calculate attentional and hyperactive/impulse control strength and weakness counts and scores. In a community sample of 5,744 children and youth, 131 children were reported as having a diagnosis of ASD (mean age 10.3 years) and 346 children were reported as having a diagnosis of ADHD (mean age 10.7 years). The objective of this study was to (1) compare profiles of attentional strengths and weaknesses in ASD and ADHD and (2) determine whether attentional strengths in ASD are associated with impairment, poorer cognitive flexibility, and perseveration/perfectionism. In the ASD literature, attentional strengths have been described as maladaptive (e.g., hyperfocus), in contrast with positive portrayals in the typically developing population (e.g., flow). An ASD diagnosis is associated with elevated ADHD traits and symptoms, as well as strengths in attention. The comorbidity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses is well established. 5Hotchkiss Brain Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.4The Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Calgary, AB, Canada.3Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.2Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada. 1Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.Arnold 3,4,5, Jennifer Crosbie 2,3 and Russell J. Annie Dupuis 1, Piyumi Mudiyanselage 2, Christie L.
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