Anxiety in Autistic and Broad Autistic Phenotype Female University Students: What Role Does Anxiety Play in the Diagnosis of Female Autism?

Background: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by difficulties in communication and social interaction, alongside restricted or repetitive behaviours and interests. ASD presents with a wide range of concurrent symptoms and varying levels of severity. The higher prevalence of ASD in men has drawn increasing attention to sex differences in recent years. This study focuses on the relationship between anxiety disorders and autism in young women. Methods: Three groups of women were compared: neurotypical women with anxiety disorders, women with a broad autistic phenotype and anxiety disorders, and autistic women with co-occurring anxiety disorders. An analysis was conducted of various psychosocial factors, including intolerance to uncertainty, difficulties in emotion regulation, alexithymia, irrational beliefs, and ruminative thinking, that may contribute to the onset and maintenance of anxiety over time. Results: The results showed significant differences between neurotypical women with anxiety and those exhibiting autistic traits, with the most significant differences observed in difficulties in emotional regulation and intolerance to uncertainty. Conclusions: These findings support the hypothesis that anxiety may mask some of the core symptoms of ASD.