How to measure camouflaging? A conceptual replication of the validation of the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire in Dutch adults

Camouflaging behavior is often defined as using strategies to hide autistic characteristics. In this study, we investigated how measure camouflaging by performing a conceptual replication of the original study Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q) and testing whether self-reported measuring same construct second most used manner behavior, discrepancy method. total, 674 individuals (356 autistic) aged 30–92 years, filled out Dutch translation CAT-Q (CAT-Q-NL) Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ). 90 adults Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) was administered. We executed preregistered analyses (AsPredicted #37800) investigate factor structure, measurement invariance, internal consistency, convergent validity group differences. Our showed that three-factor structure had an acceptable fit consistency ranged from sufficient good. However, there no invariance between non-autistic correlations CAT-Q-NL-scores AQ ADOS-2 varied low mediocre (r = 0.04 to.28). The CAT-Q-NL can be within adults, but not its limited. Despite these caveats, serve useful addition clinical assessment toolbox because gaining insight in level may help provide better mental health care. more research needed into optimally construct.