This study aims to examine how elevated autistic traits relate to different anxiety response systems in a non-clinical adult sample. Specifically, it explored whether particular dimensions of the autistic trait profile were differentially associated with cognitive, physiological and motor manifestations of anxiety within a dimensional and neurodiversity-informed framework.
A total of 117 adults (45 men, 38.5%; 72 women, 61.5%), aged 18–84 years (M = 34.14, SD = 13.45), completed the abridged version of the Inventory of Situations and Responses of Anxiety (ISRA-B) and the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ-50). Correlational analyses and multiple linear regression models were conducted to examine associations and predictors of overall anxiety, its cognitive, physiological and motor components and anxiety across specific situational domains, with age and gender included as covariates.
Sensitivity to change emerged as the most consistent predictor, significantly predicting overall anxiety as well as its cognitive, physiological and motor dimensions and anxiety in test, interpersonal, phobic and daily situations. Communication-related autistic traits significantly predicted motor anxiety and anxiety in phobic contexts. By contrast, attention to detail showed no significant associations and the imagination domain did not emerge as a robust predictor once age and gender were controlled. These results underscore the role of predictability and adaptation to novelty in the expression of anxiety among adults with elevated autistic traits.
This study has several limitations. Its cross-sectional design and exclusive reliance on self-report measures preclude causal inference and may have introduced response biases. In addition, the sample size was relatively modest and diagnostic information was collected through self-report only, without independent clinical verification. Although age and gender were controlled in the regression models, other potentially relevant factors were not systematically assessed. These limitations highlight the need for longitudinal, multimethod studies with larger samples to clarify the mechanisms involved in the relationship between elevated autistic traits and anxiety.
These findings suggest the need to adapt the assessment and treatment of anxiety in adults with elevated autistic traits, even in the absence of a formal diagnosis. In clinical practice, this implies considering the regulatory role that predictability, structure or certain forms of rigidity may serve, as well as tailoring interventions to each person’s attentional, sensory and communicative profile. The results support more individualised formulations that are less reliant on protocols developed exclusively for neurotypical populations.
This study highlights that many adults with elevated autistic traits may experience significant anxiety without having been clinically identified, which can hinder both access to appropriate support and the understanding of their distress. More timely and accurate recognition of these profiles may improve clinical and social responses, reduce misinterpretations of their behaviour and promote environments that are more understanding of and responsive to, neurocognitive diversity.
The study offers a novel approach by analysing anxiety as differentiated response systems (cognitive, physiological and motor) and across situational domains, rather than as a unitary construct, in a dimensional sample that includes adults with elevated autistic traits without a formal diagnosis. The findings support a dimensional understanding of anxiety in autism-related profiles and highlight the need for assessment and clinical intervention to be tailored to these individuals’ mode of functioning, avoiding the unadjusted application of approaches validated primarily in the general population.
