Autistic Traits in Anxious Women: The Mediating Effects of Intolerance
of Uncertainty and Sensory Over-responsivity
Abstract
Correlation study exploring the relationship with sensory over
responsivity and intolerance of uncertainty with traits of autism in a
self-selected group of women with anxiety disorders. Study was conducted
using Qualitrix online platform. Ethical approval from Newcastle
University.360 women with anxiety disorders completed online
questionnaires to investigate whether SOR and IU mediated anxiety
symptoms and autistic traits. Results were consistent with hypotheses.
Women with anxiety disorders had elevated autistic traits compared to
general population, with 21.1% meeting cut-off for ASC on the AQ.
Autistic traits were predicted by all anxiety measures, with SOR and IU
being significant partial mediators in this relationship. Clinical
implications for understanding autism and anxiety in women are discussed