Working memory and processing speed as predictors of general fluid intelligence in adults with high functioning autism: A structural equation modeling approach

This study aimed to evaluate the predictive power of working memory and processing speed on general fluid intelligence (Gf) in adults with high functioning autism. One-hundred-seven participants were included in the study. They were adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria. Pearson correlation and moderated hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) was evaluated. The two independent variables (working memory capacity, processing speed) when put together yielded a coefficient of multiple regression (R) of 0.667 and a multiple correlation square of 0.641. This shows that 64.1% of the total variance in general Gf of those who participated in the study is accounted for by the combination of working memory capacity and processing speed.