Defining A Positive Life Outcome Through Autistic Adult Female Voices: A Qualitative Exploration
Date
2024-09-03
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
This study explored the way in which autistic adults conceptualize and define positive life outcomes, and the types of positive life outcomes that are important to them. It also asked autistic adults about what supports and steps may be useful to best support them in acquiring the positive life outcomes they aspire to achieve. Using a qualitative approach, five autistic females over the age of 18 were interviewed through semi-structured interviews. Data was then evaluated
using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Thirteen themes emerged across the three research questions including (1) Societal Understanding and Acceptance of Autism, (2) Personal Achievement, (3) Supports to produce meaningful work, (4) Chasing Passions and Interests, (5) Self-Growth and Wellbeing, (6) Helping Others, (7) Stability, (8) Relationship Happiness, (9) Obtaining Education and Qualifications, (10) Accessible Government Funding and Services, (11) Taking Action: Future Planning, Routine, and Research, (12) Giving and Receiving Social Support, (13) Considerations to Ensure Supports are Collaborative and not Combative. Future research directions and implications for researchers and important stakeholders are discussed in detail.
Description
Keywords
Autism Spectrum Disorder, Positive Life Outcomes, Qualitative research, Identity
Citation
Waller, M. (2024). Defining a positive life outcome through autistic adult female voices: a qualitative exploration (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.