Stewart, Gavin R.; Leoni, Marguerite; Charlton, Rebecca A; Pickard, Hannah R and Happe, Francesca. 2023. A qualitative study of autistic adults’ quality of life during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns. Autism in Adulthood, 5(3), pp. 311-324. ISSN 2573-9581 [Article]

Preview	Text Stewart_et_al_COVID_Qual_in_press_Accepted version.pdf - Accepted Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution. Download (353kB) | Preview
Preview	Text Stewart_et_al_COVID_Qual_in_press_Accepted version_supplementary_material.pdf - Supplemental Material Available under License Creative Commons Attribution. Download (61kB) | Preview

Abstract or Description

With autistic individuals experiencing greater rates of most mental health conditions, the periods of national lockdown endured since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic may have been particularly challenging. We explored autistic adults’ experience of quality of life and wellbeing during the pandemic. In total, 79 autistic adults from the UK, aged 21-75 years, took part. Participants completed an online survey, including open text questions on how various factors influencing quality of life such as social interactions, general health and wellbeing and sensory experiences were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thematic analysis identified three main themes were identified; health and wellbeing, social life and support networks, and the impact on daily life and functioning. Many participants discussed concerns regarding the transition out of lockdown, including readjusting to new rules, going back to in-person interactions, and re-acclimatising to high-stimulation sensory environments. A substantial minority reported positive experiences of lockdown, linked to reduced commuting, more control over sensory environments, and more time to pursue personal interests. These findings highlight the importance of giving autistic individuals the support they need to transition back to “normality” as lockdowns lift.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number (DOI):	https://doi.org/10.1089/aut.2022.0035
Additional Information:	Acknowledgements: This paper represents independent research funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) via the London Interdisciplinary Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership
Keywords:	Autism, Autistic Adults, COVID-19 Pandemic, Quality of Life, Qualitative
Departments, Centres and Research Units:	Psychology
Dates:	Date Event 23 December 2022 Accepted 2 March 2023 Published Online September 2023 Published
Item ID:	32995
Date Deposited:	06 Jan 2023 09:23
Last Modified:	22 Sep 2023 03:59
Peer Reviewed:	Yes, this version has been peer-reviewed.
URI:	https://research.gold.ac.uk/id/eprint/32995

View statistics for this item...

Edit Record (login required)