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Exploring the Associations Between Autistic Traits, Sleep Quality, and Well-Being in University Students: A
Devangi Lunia1, Andrew P Smith1
1Centre for Occupational and Health Psychology, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, 63 Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3AS, UK.
Brain Sciences
|June 26, 2025
Summary
Autistic traits in university students correlate with strengths and difficulties but have limited direct links to well-being. Sleep and well-being predictors indirectly influence student well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Student Health
Background:
- Limited research exists on the interplay between autistic traits, sleep patterns, and overall well-being in university students.
- This study addresses the need for more data in this specific demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the associations between autistic traits, sleep, and well-being among university students.
- To explore the relationship between autistic traits and mental health outcomes, including strengths and difficulties.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was administered to 308 university students.
- Participants completed the Comprehensive Autistic Traits Inventory (CATI), Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and sleep and well-being questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Significant correlations were found between autistic traits (CATI) and strengths and difficulties (SDQ).
- Direct associations between autistic traits and well-being (SWBPQ) were limited, but sleep and well-being predictors showed significant relationships.
- Multivariate analyses confirmed associations between CATI scores and well-being predictors, suggesting indirect effects.
Conclusions:
- Autistic traits are linked to strengths and difficulties in university students, with indirect effects on well-being mediated by sleep and other well-being predictors.
- The findings highlight the complex relationship between autistic traits, sleep, and mental health in higher education settings.
Keywords:
anxietyautistic traitsbroader autism phenotypedepressionsleep qualityuniversity studentswell-beingMore Related Videos
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