Evidence of Partner Similarity for Autistic Traits, Systemizing, and Theory of Mind via Facial Expressions

Richards, Gareth and Baron-Cohen, Simon and Warrier, Varun and Mellor, Ben and Davies, Jessica and Gee, Laura and Galvin, John (2022) Evidence of Partner Similarity for Autistic Traits, Systemizing, and Theory of Mind via Facial Expressions. Scientific Reports. ISSN 2045-2322

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Abstract

It has been hypothesised that romantic partners are more similar than chance in relation to autistic traits. To test this theory, we recruited n=105 heterosexual couples and examined within-couple correlations for autistic traits (measured using the Autism Spectrum Quotient [AQ]), empathizing (measured using the Empathy Quotient [EQ]), and systemizing (measured using the Systemizing Quotient-Revised [SQ-R]). For a subsample that attended the lab (n=58), we also investigated theory of mind via facial expressions using the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET) and attention to detail, a component within systemizing, using the Embedded Figures Task (EFT). Variable-centred analyses revealed positive within-couple correlations for all measures except EQ, although these effects were only statistically significant for unmarried couples and not for married/engaged couples. Follow-up analyses indicated that the observed couple similarity effects are likely consistent with people pairing with those more similar than chance (initial assortment) rather than becoming alike over time (convergence), and to seeking out self-resembling partners (active assortment) rather than pairing in this manner via social stratification processes (social homogamy). Additionally, a significant within-couple correlation for autistic traits was observed at the meta-analytic level. However, it should be noted that the meta-analytic effect size estimate was small (r = 0.153) and indicates that only ~2% of variance in a person’s score on a phenotypic measure of autistic traits can be predicted by that of their partner.

Item Type: Article
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-11592-z
Dates:
DateEvent
17 March 2022Accepted
19 May 2022Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords: Assortative mating; Autism; Autistic traits; Embedded Figures Task; Empathizing; Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test; Sex differences; Systemizing; Theory of Mind
Subjects: CAH04 - psychology > CAH04-01 - psychology > CAH04-01-01 - psychology (non-specific)
Divisions: Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences > School of Social Sciences > Dept. Psychology
Depositing User: John Galvin
Date Deposited: 17 Mar 2022 16:46
Last Modified: 20 May 2022 12:34
URI: https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/12949

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