Cherewick M, Cruz CM, Giri P, Matergia M, Rai RP. Relationships between autistic traits, self-efficacy, and internalizing symptoms in a nonclinical sample of Indian early adolescents.
Brain Behav 2024;
14:e3646. [PMID:
39135279 PMCID:
PMC11319233 DOI:
10.1002/brb3.3646]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Having more "autistic traits" is associated with an increased risk of mental health conditions. However, few studies have examined autistic traits in nonclinical samples. This study aims to analyze the relationship between autistic traits and internalizing symptoms among early adolescents and to examine the moderating effect of self-efficacy.
METHODS
Survey data were collected from early adolescents ages 10-14 living in Darjeeling, India (n = 274) to assess autistic traits, self-efficacy, and internalizing symptoms.
RESULTS
Higher internalizing symptoms were significantly associated with a higher report of autistic traits. Academic, social, and emotional dimensions of self-efficacy moderated the relationship between autistic traits and internalizing symptoms.
CONCLUSION
The moderation effects between social and emotional self-efficacy among youth with high versus low autism trait scores suggest the need for social-emotional learning interventions designed for and with neurodivergent youth. Such interventions aim to reduce internalizing symptoms during early adolescence and improve future mental health trajectories.
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