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Relationship between autistic traits and social functioning in healthy individuals
Yuria Demizu1,2, Junya Matsumoto2, Yuka Yasuda2,3
1Department of Developmental and Clinical Psychology, The Division of Human Developmental Sciences, Graduate School of Humanity and Sciences, Ochanomizu University, Tokyo, Japan.
Autistic traits negatively impact social functioning in healthy adults, affecting daily life but not labor functioning. Further research is needed in autism spectrum disorder populations.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Social functioning is crucial for daily life and is influenced by various factors.
- Autistic traits are increasingly recognized as a potential factor impacting social interaction and functioning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between autistic traits and social functioning in a healthy adult population.
- To determine if autistic traits affect different aspects of social functioning, including daily life and labor functioning.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 755 healthy individuals.
- Assessment of autistic traits using the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ).
- Evaluation of social functioning via the Social Functioning Scale (SFS) and the Social Activity Assessment (SAA).
Main Results:
- A significant negative correlation was found between AQ total scores and the SFS total score and its subscales.
- Most AQ subscales, excluding 'attention to detail,' negatively correlated with the SFS total score.
- No significant correlation was observed between AQ scores and the SAA, indicating no impact on labor functioning.
Conclusions:
- Autistic traits in healthy individuals negatively affect real-life social functioning essential for daily living.
- The impact of autistic traits on social functioning does not extend to labor functioning, as measured by working hours.
- Future studies should explore these relationships in individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
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