Autistic- and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder-like traits: differential associations with burnout, depression and anxiety, and empathy among Japanese junior residents - Takeaways - MDSpire
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Associations of Autistic and ADHD-like Traits with Burnout, Depression, Anxiety, and Empathy in Japanese Junior Medical Residents

  • By

  • Takafumi Watanabe

  • Toshiya Ishii

  • Tatsuo Akechi

  • July 9, 2026

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  • 1

    The study involved 148 junior medical residents in Japan assessing associations between neurodevelopmental traits and psychological distress.

  • 2

    Autistic-like traits (ALTs) and ADHD-like traits (ADHLTs) were present in 23.6% of the participants, linked to burnout, depression, and anxiety.

  • 3

    ALTs correlated with lower personal accomplishment, higher depression and anxiety, and reduced physician–patient empathy among residents.

  • 4

    ADHLTs were associated with greater emotional exhaustion, indicating distinct patterns of psychological functioning related to these traits.

  • 5

    Psychological flexibility processes, particularly progress toward values, showed significant indirect associations with ALTs and psychological outcomes.

Original Source(s)

Autistic- and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder-like traits: differential associations with burnout, depression and anxiety, and empathy among Japanese junior residents

  • by Takafumi Watanabe, Toshiya Ishii, Tatsuo Akechi

  • July 9, 2026

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