Psychometric Validation of the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire
This study focuses on understanding how young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) try to manage social situations by 'camouflaging' or masking their autistic traits. Sometimes, because of this camouflaging, autism can be diagnosed later in life. A new questionnaire, the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q), has been developed in English to help measure this. This research aims to check if a German version of the CAT-Q works accurately for teenagers aged 13-21. If successful, this validated questionnaire could help doctors and specialists better understand camouflaging. This could lead to earlier diagnosis and more personalised support plans for young people with ASD.
At a glance
What is this study about?
For many people, particularly young people, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) might not be diagnosed until later in life, sometimes in their teenage years or even as adults. One reason this can happen is because individuals with autism often learn ways to cope and fit in, sometimes by 'camouflaging' or hiding their autistic traits. This might involve trying to make eye contact, forcing themselves to engage in small talk, or imitating the social behaviours of others.
To better understand and measure this camouflaging, a questionnaire called the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q) was created in English. It helps assess how much an autistic person consciously or unconsciously tries to hide or lessen their autistic behaviours to better manage social situations. This study wants to make sure that a German version of this questionnaire is reliable and accurate when used with autistic young people.
Checking if the German CAT-Q works well is an important step. If it does, it can help researchers learn more about camouflaging. This understanding could then lead to improvements in how autism is diagnosed, potentially helping people get a diagnosis earlier. It could also help doctors and support teams create more tailored and effective support plans for young people with autism, making sure they get the help they need to thrive.
Key takeaways
- The study assesses a new questionnaire for autistic teenagers.
- It focuses on 'camouflaging' — how autistic people hide their traits.
- The goal is to improve autism diagnosis and support.
- Participants are young people aged 13-21, with or without an autism diagnosis.
- No new treatments are involved; it's about validating a survey.
Who may be eligible?
To join the study, you need to be between 13 and 21 years old. There are two main groups for this study: one for young people with an autism diagnosis and another 'control' group for young people who do not have any mental health conditions.
For young people with autism, you must have a formal diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, including conditions like atypical autism or Asperger syndrome. You wouldn't be able to join if you have severe memory problems (dementia), very low cognitive abilities (an IQ below 85), or if you have severe vision or hearing problems that aren't corrected (like with glasses or hearing aids), or if you don't speak German.
For the 'control' group, you also need to be between 13 and 21 years old and should not have had any mental health conditions diagnosed in your lifetime. Similar to the autism group, you can't join if you have severe memory or cognitive issues (IQ below 85), uncorrected severe vision or hearing problems, or don't speak German.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 13 and 21 years old?
- Do you speak German?
- Do you have a diagnosis of autism (e.g., atypical autism, Asperger syndrome)? (Or are you in good mental health with no past diagnoses?)
- Do you have good vision and hearing (with or without corrective aids)?
- Do you have average or above-average thinking abilities (IQ 85 or above)?
What does participation involve?
The study doesn't mention specific visits, assessments beyond filling out the questionnaire, medication, or follow-up appointments. It focuses on validating a questionnaire. Therefore, taking part would likely involve completing the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q) in German. The total duration of your involvement would likely be limited to the time it takes to complete this questionnaire.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Medical Center Hamburg-EppendorfVerified postcodeHamburg, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'camouflaging'?
Camouflaging means when someone with autism tries to hide or mask their autistic traits to fit in better in social situations.
Why is this study important?
It helps make sure a new questionnaire (CAT-Q) works well in German, which could lead to better understanding, diagnosis, and support for autistic young people.
Who can take part in this study?
Young people aged 13 to 21 with an autism diagnosis, and a control group of young people without other mental health conditions.
What does taking part involve?
It mainly involves filling out a questionnaire called the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q) in German.
Will I get any specific treatment?
No, this study is about checking if a questionnaire works well, not about providing new treatments.
How to find out more
Johannes Boettcher, Dr.
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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