Relationship among physical activity, social anxiety, and autistic traits in female college students: a variable-and person-centered analysis (opens in new tab)

BackgroundAutistic traits are prevalent among college students and are associated with impaired social functioning and mental health. Although physical activity is considered a protective factor, the underlying mechanisms, particularly the mediating role of social anxiety and the heterogeneity of autistic traits, remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the association between physical activity and autistic traits, test the mediating role of social anxiety, and identify latent subgroups am...