Degree Date

3-2026

Document Type

Dissertation - Public Access

Degree Name

Psy.D. Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Academic Discipline

Clinical Psychology

First Advisor

Leah Horvath, PsyD

Second Advisor

Emese Vitalis, PsyD

Third Advisor

Catherine Jackson, PsyD

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition marked by impairments in social interaction, communication, repetitive behaviors, and differences in cognitive and emotional functioning. These challenges can significantly affect daily living, relationships, and long-term independence, often requiring lifelong support. Emerging research suggests that deficits in interoceptive processing—the ability to perceive internal bodily states—may contribute to ASD symptoms and represent a potential target for intervention.

This study aims to compare resting-state EEG (QEEG) activity between children and adolescents with ASD and neurotypical (TD) peers, and to explore the relationship between interoceptive processing and ASD diagnosis. Archival QEEG data from individuals aged 4–17 were analyzed.

A multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) was used to examine group differences, with diagnosis (ASD vs. TD) and sex as independent variables, and age as a covariate to control for developmental effects. Dependent variables included absolute, peak, and relative spectral power across standard EEG frequency bands (Delta, Theta, Alpha, Beta, Gamma). Separate MANCOVAs were conducted for each frequency band, followed by univariate ANOVAs to identify specific electrode-level differences.

This methodological approach allows for the isolation of diagnostic and sex-related effects while accounting for age-related variability. The study aims to clarify neurophysiological differences associated with ASD and their potential link to interoceptive processing, with implications for future treatment strategies.

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