Are autistic traits an independent personality dimension? A study of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ) and the NEO-PI-R

This study examines the relation between autistic traits and the personality dimensions of the Big Five model in a sample of 320 university students. We administered the Autism-Spectrum Questionnaire (AQ) and the NEO-PI-R. Results showed the AQ correlated with Extraversion and Conscientiousness negatively, and Neuroticism positively. Results of multiple regression analyses suggested the NEO-PI-R did not predict AQ score. Joint factor analyses also suggested autistic traits are independent of the big five personality dimensions. High AQ scorers, who are an analogue model of autism spectrum conditions, showed a profile of high Neuroticism, low Extraversion and low Conscientiousness. Results are discussed in terms of autistic traits representing a sixth factor of personality.