Temperament and psychological and social functioning of children with disorders belonging to autism spectrum disorder

Introduction
In contemporary psychological research, increasing emphasis has been placed on temperamental differences as a salient determinant of psychosocial development in children with autism spectrum disorders. Certain temperamental constellations are considered to foster more adaptive social and emotional functioning, whereas others may confer heightened susceptibility to difficulties within these domains.

Aim of the research
The aim of the work was to analyze the correlations between temperament traits and psychosocial functioning of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Moreover, an attempt was made to distinguish groups of children with ASD with specific types of temperament.

Material and methods
The study included 58 women raising children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (according to DSM-5). The following research methods were used in the work: a self-designed questionnaire, the EAS-D/C version of the Temperament Questionnaire by Buss and Plomin, a set of questionnaires for the Autism Spectrum Rating Scales (ASRS) by Goldstein and Naglieri and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) by Goodman.

Results and conclusions
The results of statistical analyses indicate the presence of significant correlations between temperament traits and difficulties in psychosocial functioning and symptoms of autism spectrum disorder in children. Based on the cluster analysis in the group of children with ASD, two subgroups differing in temperament types were distinguished, namely individuals with an active and passive type of temperament. Children with ASD with an active temperament type are characterized by high strength and speed of motor reactions, high level of sociability and low shyness. Children with ASD with a passive temperament type are characterized by low activity and sociability, and increased shyness.