Spectral Power of Background EEG, Complex Visual-Motor Response, Galvanic Skin Response and Electrocardiogram Parameters in Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorders and Mental Retardation

The paper presents the results of a study of the parameters of the galvanic skin response, electrocardiogram, complex visual-motor response parameters and spectral power of the background EEG on a sample of 34 schoolchildren aged 12 to 17 years with autism spectrum disorders and mental retardation. Electroencephalogram and polygraphic channels (electromyogram, galvanic skin response, electrocardiogram) were recorded. Intelligence was diagnosed using the WISC test by D. Wechsler. The functional state was assessed by complex visual-motor response parameters using the Psychophysiologist device. The study found that a higher spectral power of the background EEG in the alpha range in the parietal region corresponds to a higher level of general intelligence in adolescents with autism spectrum disorders and mental retardation. Evaluation of the complex visual-motor reaction showed that a higher spectral power of the background EEG in the beta-1 range of the right and central occipital region corresponds to the average class of sensorimotor reactions. A higher spectral power of the background EEG in the beta-2 range of the right frontal region is noted in adolescents with a higher class of sensorimotor reactions. The obtained results are used in the development of individual correctional programs for adolescents with autism spectrum disorders and mental retardation.