Background

The elevated rates of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) among siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) raises concerns about their developmental monitoring. The principal aim of this study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a standardized screening process in a large sample of siblings.

Methods and analysis 

This prospective and regional validation study consists of a selective and multi-stage screening process for NDD performed on 384 siblings of children with confirmed ASD. Stage 1 consists of screening for NDDs using online parental questionnaires (SRS-2, Identity scale, DCDQ, parental concerns) through a web platform. Siblings for whom the screening is positive are asked to participate in stage 2 through a clinical semi-structured interview with a psychologist before referral for diagnosis and treatment. Approximately 12 months after stage 2, parents are contacted by telephone to collect the diagnosis established following the referrals and their satisfaction level with the screening process. Given the expected prevalence of NDD among siblings, 142 children with NDDs are expected from among the 384 participants.

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