Exploring the Associations Between Autistic Traits, Sleep Quality and Well-Being in Adults and University Students: A Narrative Review with Systematic Elements

Background: The impact of autistic traits on well-being is often misunderstood, particularly the effect that sleep quality has on this relationship. Hence, this review aimed to consolidate findings from past research, exploring the relationship among autistic traits, sleep quality, and well-being to identify areas requiring further research. Methods: The findings of prior research were presented in a narrative review with systematic elements, closely following PRISMA guidelines. Results: Twenty studies met the inclusion criteria. Overall, little research was found on the topic; however, the findings from the studies included in the review highlighted the need for better, more refined scales to deepen understanding of the relationship among autistic traits, sleep quality, and well-being. Findings from these studies were relatively consistent, suggesting that autistic characteristics and sleep quality have a significant impact on well-being and mental health. Some studies provided a potential mechanism to explain this relationship. Most studies investigated ASD rather than exploring the impact of autistic traits. Conclusion: While the narrative review of research found no age-related differences in autistic characteristics, it also highlighted the importance of studying these variables among university students, considering factors that affect student well-being, such as academic stress and workload. Finally, using scores of individual items rather than an overall scale score may aid a more refined understanding of the relationship among autistic traits, sleep quality, and well-being.