Individual Differences Research

Journal Menu

Individual Differences Research > Volume 9, Issue 2 (2011) > 73-83

Personality Trait Differences between Typically Developing Children and those Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Carrie L. Fortenberry, Cathy L. Grist, David M. McCord

Abstract

Early identification of autism is strongly associated with more positive outcomes. Many assessment instruments have been developed for this purpose, most of which locus on specific symptoms of autism. More recently, this effort has expanded to include assessment instruments based on temperament and personality. The present study used the MS-PS-45 Questionnaire, based on the five-factor model of personality, to compare personality trait differences in children with autism (n = 8) and typically developing children (n = 7) ages 3 to 5. Typically developing children received significantly higher scores on Extraversion, Conscientiousness, and Openness to Experience. The groups did not differ on Agreeableness or Neuroticism These results are discussed in terms of implications for early identification of autism spectrum disorders.