Loneliness and Social Anxiety Mediate the Relationship between Autism Quotient and Quality of Life in University Students

Traits associated with autism, along with depression, anxiety, loneliness, quality of life, and social anxiety were investigated by self-report questionnaires in a university student population (N = 413). In the sample, which was recruited online, 8 % had scores above cut-off on the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) self-report questionnaire. There were significant differences in AQ between students studying physical sciences and both social sciences and arts/humanities. Higher AQ scores were associated with higher scores of loneliness, social anxiety, depression, and anxiety, as well as with lower scores of quality of life (QoL). QoL was best predicted for by scores of depression, loneliness, and social anxiety; the latter two variables mediated the relationship between autism traits and QoL. The identification and support of such students who may be vulnerable is of utmost importance.