Experts Say New Autism Study Is a Shocking Wake-Up Call

Researchers used a psychological model and standard tests to evaluate the relationships between characteristics of autism (Autism Spectrum Quotient), depression (Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale), and suicidal behavior (Suicide Behavior Questionnaire-Revised). Based on the results gathered, they found that participants who expressed increased levels of autistic characteristics were more at risk of attempting suicide during their lifetime. The results revealed that increased levels of autistic characteristics were linked with increased vulnerability to feelings of burden, depression, and not belonging in the world – thereby putting them at an increased risk of suicide. Researchers said that the psychological model could prove to be a useful framework in predicting suicidal behavior among such individuals; however, further developments need to be done. Such developments are necessary in order to explore psychological properties more in-depth and create a proper supportive and effective assessment model for individuals at risk of suicide along with an effective treatment plan. Furthermore, they noted that understanding the association among characteristics of autism is vital to reducing the rates of suicide, yet more research needs to be done in that specific area.