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Psychometric Properties of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient for Assessing Low and High Levels of Autistic Traits in College Students

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Abstract

The current study systematically investigated the effects of scoring and categorization methods on the psychometric properties of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient. Four hundred and three college students completed the Autism-Spectrum Quotient at least once. Total scores on the Autism-Spectrum Quotient had acceptable internal consistency and test–retest reliability using a binary or Likert scoring method, but the results were more varied for the subscales. Overall, Likert scoring yielded higher internal consistency and test–retest reliability than binary scoring. However, agreement in categorization of low and high autistic traits was poor over time (except for a median split on Likert scores). The results support using Likert scoring and administering the Autism-Spectrum Quotient at the same time as the task of interest with neurotypical participants.

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Acknowledgments

We thank student research assistants including Cheyenne Layman, Linda Muller, and Katherine Williams for their assistance with data collection and data entry. This project was supported by start-up funds and a Support/Expense Grant from Ursinus College to JLS.

Author Contributions

JLS conceived, designed, and coordinated the study; JLS and KRH performed the statistical analysis and interpreted the data; JLS drafted the manuscript; KRH edited the manuscript. Both authors read and approved the final manuscript.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Ursinus College, 601 East Main Street, Collegeville, PA, 19426, USA

    Jennifer L. Stevenson

  2. Department of Mathematics and Computer, The Hotchkiss School, Lakeville, CT, USA

    Kari R. Hart

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  1. Jennifer L. Stevenson
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Correspondence to Jennifer L. Stevenson.

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Stevenson, J.L., Hart, K.R. Psychometric Properties of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient for Assessing Low and High Levels of Autistic Traits in College Students. J Autism Dev Disord 47, 1838–1853 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-017-3109-1

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