Autistic traits and abnormal sensory experiences in adults.

Jamie Horder,M Andreina Mendez,C Ellie Wilson,Declan G Murphy

doi:10.1007/s10803-013-2012-7

Jamie Horder, M Andreina Mendez + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-013-2012-7

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Abstract

Sensory processing abnormalities are common in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and now form part of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5th Edition (DSM-5) diagnostic criteria, but it is unclear whether they characterize the ‘broader phenotype’ of the disorder. We recruited adults (n = 772) with and without an ASD and administered the Autism Quotient (AQ) along with the Adult/Adolescent Sensory Profile (AASP), the Cardiff Anomalous Perceptions Scale (CAPS), and the Glasgow Sensory Questionnaire (GSQ), all questionnaire measures of abnormal sensory responsivity. Autism traits were significantly correlated with scores on all three sensory scales (AQ/GSQ r = 0.478; AQ/AASP r = 0.344; AQ/CAPS r = 0.333; all p < 0.001). This relationship was linear across the whole range of AQ scores and was true both in those with, and without, an ASD diagnosis. It survived correction for anxiety trait scores, and other potential confounds such as mental illness and migraine.

Highlights

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a family of neurodevelopmental syndromes with approximately 1 % prevalenceD
We show that in adults, ASD traits are associated with unusual sensory experiences
The present study replicates this finding, and adds to it in several ways: we used three different sensory scales, and confirmed that the association held in each case; and we show that the relationship is not accounted for by the potential confounds of mental illness, migraines, and family history of ASD

Summary

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a family of neurodevelopmental syndromes with approximately 1 % prevalence. In addition to these observable symptoms, unusual subjective sensory and perceptual experiences are increasingly recognized to be key features of ASD. Studies have found high rates of diverse sensory abnormalities in both children and adults diagnosed with an ASD. These include both hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity to various stimuli, as well as strong preferences for or against stimuli that are typically regarded as neutral (Crane et al 2009; Elwin et al 2013; Mazurek et al 2013; Watling et al 2001)

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