The Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ)--adolescent version

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Psychometrics

Background:

• The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) is a validated tool for assessing autistic traits in adults.
• Adaptation of the AQ for pediatric populations is crucial for early identification and intervention.
• Previous research highlights the need for age-appropriate measures of autistic characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt and validate the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) for use in adolescents aged 9.8–15.4 years.
• To assess the AQ's ability to differentiate between adolescents with autism spectrum conditions and typically developing controls.
• To examine the continuum of autistic traits within an adolescent population.

Main Methods:

• The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) was administered to three groups of adolescents: Asperger Syndrome/high-functioning autism (n=52), classic autism (n=79), and typically developing controls (n=50).
• Statistical analyses were performed to compare AQ scores across the groups.
• Age and sex differences in AQ scores were investigated.

Main Results:

• Adolescents with Asperger Syndrome/high-functioning autism and classic autism demonstrated significantly higher AQ scores compared to controls.
• No significant difference in AQ scores was observed between the Asperger Syndrome/high-functioning autism and classic autism groups.
• Approximately 90% of clinical participants scored 30 or above on the AQ, while no controls reached this threshold. Control group boys scored higher than girls.

Conclusions:

• The adapted AQ is a reliable and valid instrument for quantifying autistic traits in adolescents.
• The AQ effectively distinguishes between autistic adolescents and their typically developing peers.
• The findings support the use of the AQ in assessing the spectrum of autistic characteristics in young individuals.