Abstract
BackgroundThe prevalence of elevated alexithymia trait is notably high among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which will cause emotional and behavioral issues, especially aggressive behavior. However, few studies explored the inter links between autistic traits, alexithymia, sleep disturbance and aggression. Using network analysis, current study explores relationships between these symptoms within a general population sample. MethodSeven hundred and sixty-one (age 18–30, 351 male, 410 female) participants were recruited through an online platform. Network analysis was used to clarify relationship between these symptoms, and network comparison was conducted to determine whether network pattern differed between male and female. ResultsDiscernible patterns linking autistic traits to alexithymia, sleep disturbance and aggression. These patterns exhibited a satisfactory level of stability and consistency when tested and retested. Among the nodes examined, the node with the highest centrality and expected influence in the network is aggression. Network constructed using male and female data show different patterns of structure and strength. ConclusionUnderstanding the association between autism traits and other behavioral and emotional issues, as well as the possible role of gender, can help optimize targeted interventions and improve the quality of life of individuals with autism.
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