• Jin Hyung Lee, Hyunchan Hwang, Juri Yun, Hee Jun Kim, Seo-Koo Yoo, Un Sun Chung, and Doug Hyun Han.
• Department of Psychiatry, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
• J. Korean Med. Sci. 2023 Jul 24; 38 (29): e228e228.

BackgroundMusic is regarded as a beneficial tool for assessing the clinical symptoms and communication skills in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or autism. The present study developed a music-based attention test (MAT) for individuals with autism using music parameters and the algorithm of the comprehensive attention test (CAT).MethodsWe recruited 51 autistic individuals and 50 neurotypical individuals to participate in the CAT, MAT, and social intelligence tests. The reliability and validity of the MAT were assessed using exploratory factor analysis, concurrent validity, and criterion-related validity.ResultsThe MAT had sound internal consistency (high Cronbach's α = 0.948). In addition, the MAT had suitable concurrent validity in the correlation between CAT and MAT, as well as good criterion validity when attention was measured using the MAT and was compared between autistic individuals and neurotypical individuals. Attention evaluated using the MAT was associated with the social quotient in individuals with autism.ConclusionsThe MAT could be a relevant tool for gauging attention in individuals with ASD. Furthermore, attention determined using the MAT may be correlated with social quotient in autistic individuals. Future studies should consider that using music in the field of attention could improve the social quotient of individuals with autism.© 2023 The Korean Academy of Medical Sciences.

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