The researchers investigated how autistic and non-autistic adults assess their own intelligence. The study included 284 autistic adults and 63 non-autistic adults. Participants estimated their own intelligence and completed a short online cognitive test. The researchers then compared these self-assessments with their test scores.
Differences in self-assessment
Among non-autistic participants, approximately 94% rated their intelligence higher than their test scores indicated. Among autistic participants, this figure was around 75%. Nearly one in four autistic participants underestimated their cognitive abilities.
The findings suggest that autistic adults are less likely to show a positive bias when assessing their intelligence. However, this does not necessarily mean their self-assessments are more accurate. Their estimates varied more widely and were more often negative.
According to the researchers, societal stereotypes, social experiences and differences in self-perception may contribute to these findings. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms.
Read the publication: Reduced Positive Bias in Autistic Adults’ Intelligence Self-Assessments - Erik Van der Burg, Robert M. Jertberg, Hilde M. Geurts, Bhismadev Chakrabarti, Sander Begeer, 2026