Medical Science: Recent Advances and Applications Vol. 9

Aims: This study illustrates the use of the Griffiths Child Development Scales 3^rd edition (Griffiths III) to clarify a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder and possible other comorbid disorders with attentional and behavioural features.

Study Design:  A single case study integrating quantitative data from the Griffiths III with qualitative information derived from disaggregated item-level analysis and developmental constructs.

Methodology: A test battery of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Conners 3 - Parent and Teacher Surveys, Long Form and the Goodenough–Harris Draw-a-Person test was administered before the Griffiths III. The concept of Theory of Mind is used to examine his difficulties on the Griffiths III Personal-Social-Emotional Subscale.

Results: The Griffiths III assessment revealed a scattered developmental profile, with developmental quotients (DQ) both above and below 50. The child demonstrated marked difficulties in:

• Skills for Learning (e.g. attention, curiosity, processing speed)
• Ways of Thinking, Memory, and Play
• Language and Communication
• Early Social and Emotional Development

These findings, in combination with qualitative analysis, helped to construct a more comprehensive developmental profile.

Conclusion: Assessment using Griffiths III added valuable depth to the diagnostic process, particularly in domains where normative scores fell at or below DQ 50. Evaluating children with multiple neurodevelopmental disorders presents challenges in early childhood, where scores alone may not reflect the full extent of the child’s needs. A thorough evaluation is essential when presenting behaviours impede typical development, as it supports the creation of tailored, individualised support plans. This study cautions against a narrow diagnostic lens and underscores the importance of ongoing, broad-based assessments for children presenting with complex or overlapping developmental concerns.