Sensory Processing and Autistic Traits: Mediation Effect of Frontal Alpha Asymmetry

Abstract

A sensory processing approach can be used to intervene with behaviours in individuals with autistic symptoms. However, neural mechanisms linking sensory processing patterns and autistic features are less understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether frontal alpha asymmetry could mediate the relationship between atypical sensory processing and autistic traits. Seventy-three neurotypical young adults were included in this study. Resting-state brain activity was recorded using electroencephalography. After the recording, participants completed the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile and the Autism-Spectrum Quotient. Frontal alpha asymmetry was calculated by subtracting left frontal alpha power from right frontal alpha power. Correlation analysis was performed to find which sensory processing patterns were related to frontal alpha asymmetry and autistic traits. Mediation analysis was then conducted with sensory avoiding patterns as an independent variable, autistic traits as a dependent variable, and frontal alpha asymmetry as a mediator. Interrelations between higher sensation avoiding patterns, greater right-sided cortical activity, and increased autistic traits were found. The sensation avoiding patterns affected autistic traits directly and indirectly through right-sided cortical activity. Findings of the current study demonstrate a mediating role of frontal alpha asymmetry in the relationship between sensation avoiding patterns and autistic traits in neurotypical adults. This study suggests that sensation avoiding patterns and withdrawal-related emotions, which are associated with right-sided cortical activity, need to be considered to improve autism symptoms.