Master's Theses

Department

Psychology

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been a disorder of increased interest in research and diagnostic referrals in recent years, especially within higher functioning populations. However, little is still known about subclinical presentations of ASD and subclinical autistic symptoms. Due to the lack of symptoms to meet a diagnostic level, individuals experiencing subclinical autistic symptoms often do not have access to services and are overlooked in clinical settings. It is often assumed that because an individual is not diagnosable that they are not suffering because of the same symptoms that caused them to be at a subclinical level. This study aimed to further explore the relationship between subclinical traits and presentations and dysfunction experienced and reported by participants. The findings demonstrated a clear correlation between autistic traits and traits of dysfunction. Additionally, general autistic traits were found to predict general dysfunction, even when controlled for symptoms of social anxiety and depression. However, further research is needed to determine the applicability of these findings to those with subclinical presentations of ASD and the general population.

Keywords

Clinical Psychology, Neurodevelopmental Disorder, Neurodiversity, Subclinical Populations, Subclinical Autistic Traits

Advisor

Dr. Janet Naylor-Tincknell

Date of Award

Spring 2025

Document Type

Thesis

Rights

© The Author

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