Relationships Among Bullying Experiences, Mood Symptoms and Suicidality in Subjects with and Without Autism Spectrum Conditions

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Background: Bullying is a major public health issue with long-term psychological consequences, particularly for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or subthreshold autistic traits, known as “broad autistic phenotype” (BAP). Prior studies have suggested increased vulnerability to victimization and mood disorders in these populations, but the association between bullying, autistic traits, and affective symptoms remains underexplored. Methods: A total of 98 individuals with at least one ASD symptom (BAP group) and 159 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Participants were classified into four groups based on ASD symptoms and bullying history. Standardized self-report instruments (AdAS Spectrum, AQ, MOODS-SR) assessed autistic traits, mood symptoms, and suicidality. Group comparisons, correlation analyses, and multiple regression models were conducted to evaluate the relationships between bullying, autistic traits, and mood disturbances. Results: BAP individuals, particularly those with ASD, reported significantly higher rates of bullying than HCs. Bullied BAP participants exhibited the highest burden of mood symptoms and suicidality. Regression analyses identified both autistic traits and bullying history as significant predictors of suicidal ideation and overall suicidality, though only autistic traits predicted suicidal behaviors. AQ and MOODS-SR scores were positively correlated, especially in depressive and rhythmicity domains. Conclusions: Autistic traits and bullying experiences independently and interactively contribute to increased mood symptomatology and suicidality. These findings underscore the importance of early identification and targeted support for at-risk individuals with ASD or BAP, particularly those with a history of victimization.

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