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Adult Autism Subthreshold Spectrum (AdAS Spectrum): Validation of a questionnaire investigating subthreshold autism
L Dell'Osso1, C Gesi1, E Massimetti1
1Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
Comprehensive Psychiatry
|December 6, 2016
Summary
The Adult Autism Subthreshold Spectrum (AdAS Spectrum) questionnaire reliably assesses subthreshold autism spectrum disorder (ASD) traits in adults. It shows strong validity and differentiates between diagnostic groups, highlighting gender differences in autistic traits.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychometrics
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- A dimensional approach to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasingly recognized.
- Subthreshold presentations of ASD in adulthood require specific assessment tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the psychometric properties of the Adult Autism Subthreshold Spectrum (AdAS Spectrum) questionnaire.
- To evaluate the AdAS Spectrum's ability to assess subthreshold ASD in adults.
Main Methods:
- 102 adults with ASD criteria (ASDc), 143 with feeding and eating disorders (FED), and 160 controls (CTL) were recruited.
- Participants completed the AdAS Spectrum, Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ), and Ritvo Autism and Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-14).
- Psychometric properties including internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and convergent validity were analyzed.
Main Results:
- The AdAS Spectrum demonstrated excellent internal consistency (KR-20=.964) and test-retest reliability (ICC=.976).
- ASDc subjects scored significantly higher on the AdAS Spectrum than FED and CTL groups.
- Significant gender effects were observed in sensory reactivity, verbal communication, and empathy domains.
Conclusions:
- The AdAS Spectrum is a reliable and valid measure for assessing subthreshold ASD traits in adults.
- The questionnaire effectively differentiates between diagnostic groups.
- Findings suggest gender influences the expression of autistic traits.
