Nicola Calabrese ’22
How autism spectrum disorder and food security are correlated with childhood affection and mental health in the United States: Results from the 2019 National Survey of Children’s Health.
Nicola Calabrese ’22, Elementary and Special Education major with a Sociology minor
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brandon Martinez, Sociology
This study examines the relationship between autism and mental health as well as affection rates amongst children. I analyze data from the 2019 National Survey of Children’s Health, a nationally representative sample of children aged 0 to 17, which was collected by the US Census Bureau. Multivariate binary logistic models reveal that children with autism are significantly less likely to be affectionate toward others. I also find that children diagnosed with autism are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety and depression, even when controlling for potentially spurious variables.
Poster Presentation: Thursday, April 28, 2 – 4 p.m.
