The Relationship Between Autistic Traits and Depression: The Chain Mediating Roles of Interpersonal Competence and Social Avoidance and Distress

Individuals with high autistic traits typically face a higher risk of depression, making it necessary to explore the relationship between autistic traits and depression in depth. Building on previous research, this study further investigates the roles of interpersonal competence, social avoidance and distress in the relationship between autistic traits and depression. A total of 674 college students were surveyed online using the Chinese version of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ) questionnaire, the Chinese version of the Interpersonal Competence Questionnaire (ICQ), the Chinese version of the Social Avoidance and Distress Scale (SAD), and the Chinese version of the 13-item Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Correlation analysis results indicate that autistic traits exhibit a significant negative correlation with interpersonal skills, while showing a significant positive correlation with social distress, social avoidance, and depression levels. Conversely, interpersonal skills demonstrate a significant negative correlation with social avoidance, distress, and depression. Social avoidance and distress showed a significant positive correlation with depression. Chain mediation analysis revealed that interpersonal skills exerted a chain mediating effect between autistic traits and depression via social avoidance and distress. These findings provide insights for further exploration of the relationship and mechanisms underlying autistic traits and depression in individuals.