Association Between Autistic Traits and Suicidality in a Sample of University Students

Background: The high prevalence of anxiety disorders and depression within the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) population is widely recognized. However, few data have been published on suicidal thoughts and behaviors (i.e., suicidal ideation, plan, or intent or a past suicide attempt) in youth with ASD. Objectives: This study examined the role of three potential mediating variables in the relationship between autistic traits and suicidality in the general population. The purpose of this study was to examine autistic trait direct and indirect effect on depression and suicidality. Methods: Participants included 320 university students (155 males, 165 females) ranging in age from 18 to 42 (M = 21.2, SD = 2.40). Depression symptoms and suicidality of the participants were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory. The Autism spectrum quotient (AQ) was used to assess autistic traits.  Multiple Logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess suicidality predictors. Structural Equation Modeling was conducted to asses AQ direct and indirect effect on Suicidality. Results: The first model of Logistic regression AQ Attention to Detail and Communication subscale are related to suicidality , attention switching is a negatively related to suicidality. The second model, depression related to suicidality, AQ Attention Switching negatively related to suicidality. Other subscales have not significant predictor effect on suicidality. In the Structural Equation Modeling AQ Attention to detail and communication effect suicide indirectly (via depression), Attention switching's effect is negatively but directly on suicidality. Conclusions: This study provides preliminary evidence that effect of Autistic trait on suicidality may be related to autistic trait depression relationship.