Psychometric Properties of the Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire in University Students
Keywords:
Autism, Validity, Reliability, PsychometricsAbstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire in the Iranian population.
Methods and Materials: The statistical population of this study included male students from engineering faculties of universities in Tehran during the 2018–2019 academic year. A total of 240 participants were selected using a multistage random sampling method to take part in the study. The data were analyzed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Cronbach's alpha coefficient.
Findings: The exploratory factor analysis supported the three-factor model of the Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire, and the results of the confirmatory factor analysis indicated a good model fit for the three-factor structure of the instrument. The pattern of correlations between the subscales of the Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire and scores from the alexithymia scale and empathy questionnaire indicated the criterion validity of the questionnaire. The internal consistency of this instrument was above 80%, and the test-retest reliability coefficient demonstrated score stability.
Conclusion: The findings of the present study showed that the Persian version of the Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire has an appropriate factor structure, reliability, and validity in the Iranian population.
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