Psychometric Properties of the Abridged Version of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient Among Iranian Students

The present study investigates the psychometric properties of the abridged version of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ).

A total of 254 students were chosen from universities in Tehran by the cluster sampling method. Then, the demographic questionnaire, close relationships-revised questionnaire, Autism Spectrum Quotient Short (AQ-S) form, and the empathy quotient-short forms were distributed among them. The data were analyzed using SPSS, Lertab, and LISREL software.

The results of the exploratory factor analysis revealed 5 factors for the AQ-S, and the confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the results of the exploratory factor analysis. The Cronbach alpha values were 0.95, 0.92, 0.48, 0.94, 0.58, and 0.89 for AQ-Short, the social skills, routine, imagination, attention switching, and number/pattern components, respectively. The divergent and convergent reliability of AQ-S was satisfactory.

The results provide evidence for the applicability of the AQ short form in assessing the autistic traits of the Iranian population.