• autism
• hikikomori

This study aimed to explore the connection between autistic traits and hikikomori tendencies in university students.This study involved students from the University of Pisa enrolled in various degree programs. All students were invited to participate via email. Those who consented completed online self-report questionnaires and provided sociodemographic information anonymously. Participants were also offered the option to consult with a psychiatrist about their results, though no financial compensation was provided for participation.Two key self-report tools were used in the study: the Adult Autism Subthreshold Spectrum (AdAS Spectrum) to assess autistic traits and the Hikikomori Questionnaire – 25 (HQ-25) to measure hikikomori tendencies.AdAS Spectrum is a 160-item questionnaire designed to identify both full and subthreshold autistic traits in individuals without intellectual disabilities. It covers areas like communication, empathy, routine adherence, and sensory sensitivity. The tool is highly reliable and has established cut-off scores to identify significant autistic traits and full-blown Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It supports a dimensional view of autism, acknowledging both typical and atypical symptoms.The HQ-25 measures hikikomori symptoms over the last six months in three areas: socialization, emotional support, and isolation. It uses a 5-point scale and has a threshold score that identifies those at risk for hikikomori. The HQ-25 has been validated across cultures and is effective in screening for hikikomori tendencies in diverse populations, including adolescents.