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Shedding Light on a Pervasive Problem: A Review of Research on Bullying Experiences Among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

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Abstract

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by difficulties with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and the development and maintenance of interpersonal relationships. As a result, individuals with ASD are at an increased risk of bullying victimization, compared to typically developing peers. This paper reviews the literature that has emerged over the past decade regarding prevalence of bullying involvement in the ASD population, as well as associated psychosocial factors. Directions for future research are suggested, including areas of research that are currently unexplored or underdeveloped. Methodological issues such as defining and measuring bullying, as well as informant validity and reliability, are considered. Implications for intervention are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada

    Jessica H. Schroeder, James M. Bebko & Jonathan A. Weiss

  2. LaMarsh Centre for Child and Youth Research, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada

    M. Catherine Cappadocia & Debra J. Pepler

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  1. Jessica H. Schroeder
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  2. M. Catherine Cappadocia
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Correspondence to Jessica H. Schroeder.

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Schroeder, J.H., Cappadocia, M.C., Bebko, J.M. et al. Shedding Light on a Pervasive Problem: A Review of Research on Bullying Experiences Among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. J Autism Dev Disord 44, 1520–1534 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-013-2011-8

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