Factor Structure of Repetitive Behaviors Across Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

The team looked at repetitive behaviors in the kids. Half had autism. Half had ADHD.

They used the Repetitive Behavior Scale. Then they ran factor analysis. They wanted to see if the same groups of behaviors show up in both disorders.

Four clear factors popped out for both groups. Same four: sensory, rigidity, self-injury, and sameness.

Kids with autism scored higher on every factor. The pattern, not the parts, looked the same.

Efstratopoulou et al. (2012) also compared autism and ADHD. They used gym-class motor checklists, not parent surveys. Both studies show the two disorders overlap, yet differ in degree.

Oliver et al. (2002) built a five-factor checklist for kids with ID. J et al. trimmed RRBs to four. Fewer factors make scoring faster for busy BCBAs.

Hirota et al. (2018) found only three screening tools work well after age four. Adding a solid four-factor RRB scale could fill a gap in those batteries.

You can use one short RRB scale for kids with either diagnosis. Look at total score first. If it is high, check the four sub-scores to pick targets. No need to buy separate forms.