Which of the following best explains the prevalence pattern of ASD among different SES groups?
A) Lower SES groups likely have higher levels of ASD than do higher SES groups because lower SES groups have more exposure to teratogens and less exposure to high-quality nutrition.
B) Lower SES groups likely have higher levels of ASD than do higher SES groups because lower SES groups tend to have greater rates of intellectual disability overall, which is highly correlated with ASD.
C) Higher SES groups likely have higher levels of ASD than do lower SES groups because their greater access to healthcare may bring signs and symptoms of ASD to the attention of a health care provider more commonly and early on in life.
D) Higher SES groups likely have higher levels of ASD because they are more likely to have their children in private school, which has a more liberal definition of ASD than other schools do.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Higher SES groups have greater access to healthcare and are more likely to have their children receive early diagnosis of ASD, resulting in a higher prevalence. Lower SES groups may have higher exposure to teratogens and less access to high-quality nutrition, but there is no strong evidence supporting these factors as major contributors to the prevalence pattern. Similarly, while intellectual disability is highly correlated with ASD, there is no evidence that it is the primary reason for the prevalence pattern. Choice D is not supported by any evidence.

Which of the Following Best Explains the Prevalence Pattern of ASD