title: Factor structure, reliability and criterion validity of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ): a study in Dutch population and patient groups.
abstract: The factor structure of the Dutch translation of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ; a continuous, quantitative measure of autistic traits) was evaluated with confirmatory factor analyses in a large general population and student sample. The criterion validity of the AQ was examined in three matched patient groups (autism spectrum conditions (ASC), social anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder). A two factor model, consisting of a "Social interaction" factor and "Attention to detail" factor could be identified. The internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the AQ were satisfactory. High total AQ and factor scores were specific to ASC patients. Men scored higher than women and science students higher than non-science students. The Dutch translation of the AQ is a reliable instrument to assess autism spectrum conditions.
authors.affiliation: Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. rah58@medschl.cam.ac.uk
authors.forename: Rosa A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Hoekstra
authors.forename: Meike
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Bartels
authors.forename: Danielle C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Cath
authors.forename: Dorret I
authors.initials: DI
authors.lastname: Boomsma
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D003431:Cross-Cultural Comparison; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D008875:Middle Aged; D009426:Netherlands; D010552:Personality Assessment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011594:Psychometrics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012016:Reference Values; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014175:Translating