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Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

Gepubliceerd in:

21-11-2022 | Original Paper

Experiences of Support Following Autism Diagnosis in Adulthood

Auteurs: Yunhe Huang, Samuel R. C. Arnold, Kitty-Rose Foley, Julian N. Trollor

Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders | Uitgave 2/2024

Abstract

This study aimed to explore experiences of support after adulthood autism diagnosis. In this mixed-methods survey study of 137 adults, we found that most common formal supports received were counselling and mental health. Common unmet support needs were sensory sensitivities and accessing other services. Cost, lack of information, and fear of not being taken seriously were common barriers. Informal support was mainly helpful for self-understanding and emotions toward diagnosis. Qualitative findings included difficulties accessing formal support, need for practical quality-of-life supports and support from autistic peers and online communities. Based on these findings, future development of supportive interventions should address unmet needs, improve access, and explore the integration of autistic peer support and online support into formal services.

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We used Identity-first (“autistic person”) and neutral (“on the autism spectrum”) terminology throughout based on participants’ preferences (see Huang et al., 2021).

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Titel: Experiences of Support Following Autism Diagnosis in Adulthood
Auteurs: Yunhe Huang
Samuel R. C. Arnold
Kitty-Rose Foley
Julian N. Trollor
Publicatiedatum: 21-11-2022
Uitgeverij: Springer US
Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders / Uitgave 2/2024
Print ISSN: 0162-3257
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-3432
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-022-05811-9

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