The Role of Trauma in the Association between Autism and Psychosis.

Introduction: Autism is a developmental condition characterised by deficits in social communication and
interaction, as well as restrictive and repetitive behaviours and interests. Recent research has found that
autistic individuals are at an increased risk of developing psychosis, a condition categorised by
delusional thoughts and hallucinations. This might be because both conditions are associated with
trauma (i.e., abuse and neglect experiences). Trauma is a well-established risk factor for psychosis.
Additionally, autistic individuals have a high probability of experiencing trauma. The aim of this research
is to examine the possible role of trauma on the association between autism and psychosis. These
studies have been co-designed by autistic individuals of the Autistica Network.
Methods: I will conduct a systematic review to evaluate the suitability of psychosis screening instruments
for autistic populations, as issues with interpretation were highlighted during a focus group meeting with
Autistica members. I will then aim to create a psychosis measure appropriate for use by autistic
populations. The moderating effect of trauma on the association between autism and psychosis will first
be tested using secondary data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development cohort. Finally, I will
collect data on an adult autistic population and a non-autistic comparison group on autism traits, trauma
history, cognitive abilities (control variable), and psychosis, using the newly developed psychosis
screening tool. I will compare trauma experiences and psychosis symptoms between the groups and test
whether the interplay of trauma and autism significantly increases the psychosis risk using a moderation
analysis.