The Relationship Among Autistic Traits, Impulsivity, and Functionality in Patients With Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Neuroscience
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental disorder associated with significant disability.
• Understanding factors contributing to disability in OCD is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between impulsivity, autistic traits, and disability in patients with OCD.
• To explore the mediating roles of autistic traits and impulsivity in the link between these factors and disability.

Main Methods:

• 88 patients with OCD and 90 healthy controls were assessed.
• Utilized Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ), Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 (BIS-11), and WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0).
• Regression and mediation analyses were performed.

Main Results:

• Autistic traits (AQ-attention switching) and impulsivity (BIS-attentional subscale) were linked to overall disability in OCD patients.
• Autistic traits (AQ total, social skills, communication) partially mediated the link between impulsivity and disability.
• Impulsivity (BIS total, attentional, nonplanning) partially mediated the link between autistic traits and disability.

Conclusions:

• Specific autistic traits and impulsivity dimensions are associated with disability in OCD.
• Cognitive recovery interventions may enhance functional outcomes in OCD patients.
• Targeting cognitive aspects could improve treatment efficacy for OCD-related disabilities.