Abstract:
Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder
characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive
activities, with a worldwide prevalence of approximately 1 in 100 children. Aggression
in children with ASD creates major challenges for families, caregivers, and healthcare
systems. Understanding its types and levels helps healthcare professionals, educators,
and caregivers develop effective strategies for managing aggressive behaviors.
Aim: The aim of this study is to assess and determine the level of physical aggression
among children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used, including 220 caregivers of
children with ASD (3–18 years) from various rehabilitation centers and educational
institutions in Dhaka and Gazipur by convenience sampling. The Children's Scale of
Hostility and Aggression: The Reactive/Proactive (C-SHARP) instrument was used to
assess multiple forms of aggression. Statistical analysis was conducted utilizing SPSS
version 25 to identify level and relationships.
Results: The study found a high aggression level in children and adolescents with ASD,
with hostility (97.72%) and covert aggression (89.09%) most common. Most cases
were mild, with reactive aggression. No significant associations were found between
demographic characteristics and specific types of aggression.
Conclusion: This research provides novel insights into the level and nature of
aggression in children and adolescents with ASD in Bangladesh. Future research should
focus on longitudinal designs, greater sample numbers, and more diverse geographic
regions to build on these findings.
Key words: ASD, Aggression, Children, Behavioral Challenges, Bangladesh
Description:
This dissertation is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Occupational therapy, Bangladesh Health Professions Institute, Faculty of Medicine, the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh.
