Is autonomic function during resting-state atypical in autism: a systematic review of evidence

Abstract

Background: theories of differences in resting-state arousal in autistic individuals are influential. Differences in arousal during resting-state would impact engagement and adaptation to the environment, having a cascading effect on development of attentional and social skills.

Objectives: we systematically evaluated the evidence for differences in measures of autonomic arousal (heart rate, pupillometry or electrodermal activity) during resting-state in autistic individuals; to understand whether certain contextual or methodological factors impact reports of such differences.

Data sources: we searched PsycInfo, MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for papers published until 16th May 2019. Of 1207 titles initially identified, 60 met inclusion criteria.

Results and conclusions: of the 51 studies that investigated group differences between neurotypical and autistic participants, 60.8 % found evidence of group differences. While findings of hyperarousal were more common, particularly using indices of parasympathetic function, findings of hypo-arousal and autonomic dysregulation were also consistently present. Importantly, experimental context played a role in revealing such differences. The evidence is discussed with regard to important methodological factors and implications for future research are described.

More information

Identifiers

ORCID for Alessio Bellato: orcid.org/0000-0001-5330-6773

Catalogue record

Export record

Altmetrics