"Hold Me Tight So I Can Go It Alone": Developmental Themes for Young Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Qualitative Health Research
Laura MattysDieter Baeyens

Abstract

Although research shows that young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) struggle with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and other co-occurring psychiatric disorders, their psychological development through emerging adulthood remains understudied. To explore relevant developmental themes for young adults with ASD while subscribing to a social-constructionist epistemology, we interviewed young adults with ASD and their mental health care professionals individually, and organized focus groups with their parents in a multiperspective design. Developmental themes were identified using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Despite a substantial body of research considering lack of social motivation, a central ASD characteristic, narratives were remarkably socially oriented. This article discusses the overarching themes of (a) searching for balance and negotiating ASD and (b) searching for suitable surroundings in different areas of life, as well as their implications for clinical practice.

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Citations

Jan 12, 2019·Issues in Mental Health Nursing·Pieta Shakes, Andrew Cashin
Nov 2, 2019·Issues in Mental Health Nursing·Pieta Shakes, Andrew Cashin
Feb 7, 2020·Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·Michelle KerstenNathan J Wilson
Dec 16, 2021·Qualitative Health Research·Shenae CallejaRachael McDonald

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