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Predicting Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) from the Systemizing Quotient-Revised (SQ-R) and Empathy Quotient (EQ)
S Wheelwright1, S Baron-Cohen, N Goldenfeld
1Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Rd., Cambridge CB2 2AH, UK.
Brain Research
|February 14, 2006
Summary
Autism spectrum condition (ASC) is linked to impaired empathizing and strong systemizing, with a slight trade-off between these cognitive traits. Our study found that the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) could be predicted by the Empathy Quotient (EQ) and Systemizing Quotient-Revised (SQ-R).
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Empathizing, a key aspect of social cognition, is notably impaired in autism spectrum condition (ASC).
- ASC is also characterized by strong systemizing abilities.
- The Empathy Quotient (EQ) and Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) measure empathizing and autistic traits, respectively, while the Systemizing Quotient (SQ) measures systemizing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between empathizing (EQ), systemizing (SQ-Revised or SQ-R), and autistic traits (AQ).
- To investigate sex differences in EQ, AQ, and SQ-R in typical individuals and individuals with ASC.
- To determine the prevalence of different 'brain types' (categorized by systemizing and empathizing levels) in typical and ASC populations.
Main Methods:
- The Systemizing Quotient (SQ) was revised (SQ-R) to mitigate traditionalist bias; AQ and EQ remained unchanged.
- Participants completed the AQ, EQ, and SQ-R online.
- The study included a large sample of students (N=1761) and a smaller group of adults with ASC (N=125).
Main Results:
- The AQ score was successfully predicted by EQ and SQ-R scores, indicating a relationship between these cognitive dimensions.
- In a typical sample, males scored higher on AQ and SQ-R and lower on EQ compared to females, consistent with sex differences in brain types.
- Adults with ASC showed no sex differences in AQ, EQ, or SQ-R, and scored higher on SQ-R than sex-matched controls, with a majority exhibiting Extreme Type S (high systemizing, low empathizing).
Conclusions:
- Empathizing and systemizing are largely independent but show a weak negative correlation, suggesting a potential trade-off.
- Autism spectrum condition is characterized by impaired empathizing alongside intact or superior systemizing.
- Further research is needed to explore the biological underpinnings of these cognitive dimensions and their interplay.
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