Trauma exposure in autistic children and adolescents

Autistic children and adolescents are at an increased risk for experiencing trauma, adversity and stressors compared to their non‐autistic peers. Characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), like communication skill differences, and social reciprocity difficulty, are thought to make the individual more vulnerable to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and trauma as these characteristics may impose an increased risk for victimization. Research has suggested that autistic children are more likely to experience ACEs such as peer violence, bullying, abuse or neglect, and parental mental health problems. However, given their communication and social difficulties, it may be more difficult for clinicians to detect traumatic experiences not reported by family members or schools. While there is agreement that autistic people tend to have greater exposure to trauma and ACEs, the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the clinical presentation of trauma exposure in this population has received less research focus.