ABSTRACT
ObjectiveTo explore psychological and behavioral characteristics of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using Psycho-educational Profile (Third Edition) (PEP3). MethodsFrom October, 2021 to October, 2022, 192 children with ASD without intervention in the Binzhou Medical University Hospital were selected as observation group, and 96 healthy children who visited at the same time were selected as control group. They were assessed with PEP3. ResultsThe development of receptive language significantly delayed behind expressive language (t = 5.383, P < 0.001) in the observation group. The cognitive, expressive language, receptive language, fine motor, gross motor, imitation and personal self-care correlated with age (r = 0.540 to 0.795, P < 0.001). The Cronbach's α of PEP3 for the observation group was 0.810 to 0.947. The original score of each subtest of PEP3 was less in the observation group than in the control group (|t| > 4.267, P < 0.001). ConclusionThe development of receptive language retards behind the expressive language in children with ASD. Cognitive and motor functions develop with age, while the correlation between maladaptive behavior and age is weak. PEP3 is reliable in internal consistency, and valid in discrimination.