In this study, we explored potential associations among self-injurious
behaviors (SIB) and a diverse group of protective and risk factors in children
with autism spectrum disorder from two databases: Autism and Developmental
Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network and the Autism Speaks-Autism Treatment
Network (AS-ATN). The presence of SIB was determined from children’s
records in ADDM and a parent questionnaire in AS-ATN. We used multiple
imputation to account for missing data and a nonlinear mixed model with site as
a random effect to test for associations. Despite differences between the two
databases, similar associations were found; SIB were associated with
developmental, behavioral, and somatic factors. Implications of these findings
are discussed in relation to possible etiology, future longitudinal studies, and
clinical practice.