Autism in Adulthood
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autisminadulthood.bsky.social
Autism in Adulthood
@autisminadulthood.bsky.social
1.3K followers 130 following 64 posts
Autism in Adulthood is a peer-reviewed journal that publishes research and scholarship on the most pressing issues affecting autistic adults. www.liebertpub.com/aut.

EIC: @cnicolaidis.bsky.social
Social Media Editors: @avanicole23.bsky.social
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autisminadulthood.bsky.social
DON'T MISS! Obstetric Care & Pregnancy Health in Autistic Individuals & Those with Developmental Disabilities in an Integrated Health Care Setting by Ames et al finds higher rates of pregnancy-related health challenges among autistic & DD adults

NEW FREE to Sept 4
www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Abstract for the paper: Obstetric Care and Pregnancy Health in Autistic Individuals and Those with Other Developmental Disabilities in an Integrated Health Care Setting in California. As summarized, it reads: Evidence suggests that autistic people face unique challenges around pregnancy health. This study compared pregnancy health and obstetric care utilization among autistic people, those with other developmental disabilities (DDs), and those from the general US population (GP) in Northern Califironia. Researchers used electronic health records to extract data on diagnoses during pregnancy and postpartum, birth outcomes, and obstertic care utilization. They used adjusted logistical regression to compare outcomes and utilization among the 3 groups. Results showed that autistic and DD groups had higher rates of hyperemesis gravidarum, prenatal depression, and preterm birth. The autistic group were more likely to experience therapeutic abortion, while the DD group had higher rates of pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders than the GP. Both the autistic and DD groups were more likely to visit the emergency department during pregnancy and postpartum and deliver via c-section. Lastly, the DD group was less likely than the GP to have a postpartum visit. These findings demonstrate that autistic people & individuals with DDs need better care that address their unique obstetric needs during and after pregnancy, including access to family planning services, enhanced prenatal & postpartum care, and preinatal mental health support.
September 4, 2025 at 11:44 PM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
Obstetric Care & Pregnancy Health in Autistic Individuals and Those with Other Developmental Disabilities in an Integrated Health Care Setting by Ames et al finds higher rates of pregnancy-related health challenges among autistic & DD adults

NEW FREE to Sept 4

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Abstract for the paper: Obstetric Care and Pregnancy Health in Autistic Individuals and Those with Other Developmental Disabilities in an Integrated Health Care Setting in California. As summarized, it reads: Evidence suggests that autistic people face unique challenges around pregnancy health. This study compared pregnancy health and obstetric care utilization among autistic people, those with other developmental disabilities (DDs), and those from the general US population (GP) in Northern Califironia. Researchers used electronic health records to extract data on diagnoses during pregnancy and postpartum, birth outcomes, and obstertic care utilization. They used adjusted logistical regression to compare outcomes and utilization among the 3 groups. Results showed that autistic and DD groups had higher rates of hyperemesis gravidarum, prenatal depression, and preterm birth. The autistic group were more likely to experience therapeutic abortion, while the DD group had higher rates of pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders than the GP. Both the autistic and DD groups were more likely to visit the emergency department during pregnancy and postpartum and deliver via c-section. Lastly, the DD group was less likely than the GP to have a postpartum visit. These findings demonstrate that autistic people & individuals with DDs need better care that address their unique obstetric needs during and after pregnancy, including access to family planning services, enhanced prenatal & postpartum care, and preinatal mental health support.
September 1, 2025 at 4:52 AM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
DON'T MISS! Verbal Collaboration in Same- & Mixed-Neurotype Groups of Autistic & Non-Autistic Adults by
@sarah-foster.bsky.social et al examined verbal collaboration during a group tower-building task among autistic and non-autistic adults

NEW FREE to Aug 28
www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Abstract for the paper: Verbal Collaboration in Same- and Mixed-Neurotype Groups of Autistic and Non-Autistic Adults by Sarah Foster et al. As summarized, it reads: Background: Research suggests that some autistic adults communicate more effectively and build stronger rapport with other autistic individuals than with non-autistic people. This suggests that outcomes for autistic people in group settings may depend on the diagnostic composition of the group. Here, we examined verbal collaboration among autistic and non-autistic adults in same- and mixed-neurotype groups during a shared task. Methods: We assigned 136 adults (73 autistic, 63 non-autistic) to 34 four-person groups: all autistic, all non-autistic, majority autistic, or majority non-autistic. Researchers video recorded groups during a 5-minute Jenga tower-building task, and participants reported their rapport with the group. Researchers transcribed and coded the videos for collaborative speech using a validated coding scheme. Results: Preregistered analyses revealed that autistic participants expressed more positive opinions about the group and their own contributions than did non-autistic participants. Non-autistic participants expressed more negative group evaluations and elicited more building ideas. Participants in mixed-neurotype groups directed more negativity toward others than participants in same-neurotype groups. Autistic—but not non-autistic—participants verbalized more negativity in mixed groups. Exploratory correlations revealed links between aspects of collaborative speech and rapport. Discussion: Autistic adults expressed greater overall positivity but expressed more negativity in mixed group settings. These findings support evidence that autistic people often experience better rapport in all-autistic groups and may be more sensitive to mixed group environments than non-autistic people.
August 28, 2025 at 3:49 PM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
Verbal Collaboration in Same- and Mixed-Neurotype Groups of Autistic and Non-Autistic Adults by @sarah-foster.bsky.social
et al. examined verbal collaboration during a group tower-building task among autistic and non-autistic adults (1/)

NEW FREE to Aug 28

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Abstract for the paper: Verbal Collaboration in Same- and Mixed-Neurotype Groups of Autistic and Non-Autistic Adults by Sarah Foster et al. As summarized, it reads: Background: Research suggests that some autistic adults communicate more effectively and build stronger rapport with other autistic individuals than with non-autistic people. This suggests that outcomes for autistic people in group settings may depend on the diagnostic composition of the group. Here, we examined verbal collaboration among autistic and non-autistic adults in same- and mixed-neurotype groups during a shared task. Methods: We assigned 136 adults (73 autistic, 63 non-autistic) to 34 four-person groups: all autistic, all non-autistic, majority autistic, or majority non-autistic. Researchers video recorded groups during a 5-minute Jenga tower-building task, and participants reported their rapport with the group. Researchers transcribed and coded the videos for collaborative speech using a validated coding scheme. Results: Preregistered analyses revealed that autistic participants expressed more positive opinions about the group and their own contributions than did non-autistic participants. Non-autistic participants expressed more negative group evaluations and elicited more building ideas. Participants in mixed-neurotype groups directed more negativity toward others than participants in same-neurotype groups. Autistic—but not non-autistic—participants verbalized more negativity in mixed groups. Exploratory correlations revealed links between aspects of collaborative speech and rapport. Discussion: Autistic adults expressed greater overall positivity but expressed more negativity in mixed group settings. These findings support evidence that autistic people often experience better rapport in all-autistic groups and may be more sensitive to mixed group environments than non-autistic people.
August 21, 2025 at 3:06 AM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
A Multidimensional Model of Social Autistic Function and Its Effects on Quality of Life by Pieslinger et al examines the contributions of socail autistic traits and whether these dimensions affect the quality of life of autistic people. ‪

NEW FREE

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Abstract for the paper: "A Multidimensional Model of Social Autistic Function and Its Effects on Quality of Life". As summarized, it reads: this study aimed to examine the contributions of social dimensions to the autistic neurotype, and then use causal inference to identify which of them have adverse effects on quality of life. They looked at six social traits: social anhedonia, theory of mind, affective empathy, social anxiety, prosopagnosia, and alexithymia using questionnaires from 366 adults with a wide range of autistic traits, with 78 being diagnosed with autism. They found that five dimensions (all except affective empathy) explained most variation in autistic social traits. However, only alexithymia and social anhedonia were found to adversely affect quality of life. These findings suggest that autistic social function can be explained by variation across multiple dimensions that are specific, neurally and behaviorally, than broad autistic traits. This includes the transdiagnostic constructs of alexithymia and social anhedonia, which disproportionally affected quality of life. These may serve as markers for poor outcomes.
August 19, 2025 at 3:15 AM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
“It Was a Completely Different Lens”: Autistic Adult and Parent Perceptions of Autistic-Led Autism Information Workshops by Waddington & colleagues finds autistic-led workshops fosters connections for autistic adults & parents.

NEW FREE to July 30

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Abstract for the paper "It Was a Completely Different Lens": Autistic Adult & Parent Perceptions of Autistic-Led Autism Information Workshops. It reads: Research shows that when autistic people mentor and share information about autism with other autistic individuals. It provides benefits. However, researchers are yet to determine whether parents of autistic children benefit from learning about autism directly from autistic people. Autistic people leading information workshops for parents of autistic children are an emerging practice. In this coproduced study, researchers used a mixed-methods approach to examine the perceptions of 12 parents of young autistic children and 7 autistic adults who participated in, or facilitated, three 2-hour autism information workshops. Quantitative survey results showed that parents were generally satisfied with the workshops, but some would have liked more time. The qualitative findings suggest that the workshops fostered a more positive narrative around autism. The workshops helped build connections both within and across groups for the autistic adults, the parents, and their autistic children. The workshop’s “cosy” nature helped participants to feel comfortable in sharing their experiences and questions. Participants expressed a preference or desire for a diverse range of facilitators. These results highlight the important role that autistic adults could play in supporting and sharing information with parents of young autistic children.
July 30, 2025 at 5:50 AM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
Autism and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Content in Highly Viewed TikTok Videos by ‪@gailalvares.bsky.social‬ et al finds that autism & ADHD content on TikTok often captures lived experiences of being autistic or ADHD.

NEW FREE to Aug 1

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Abstract for the paper, "Autism and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Content in Highly Viewed Tiktok Videos. It reads: Background: Social media allows users to connect with others’ experiences and points of view, with TikTok being the fastest-growing platform worldwide. Highly viewed videos related to neurodiversity on TikTok have an increasing role in understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals. However, little is known about the type of such highly viewed TikTok content, including how neurodivergent individuals depict themselves or are depicted by others. This study aimed to explore neurodivergent content within highly viewed TikTok videos using autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-related hashtags. Methods: We identified publicly available videos (n = 500) using hashtags with high view counts. We coded videos identified for feature extraction for engagement metrics, demographics, and type of included content, with 20% randomly selected for qualitative reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Most videos depicted creators with lived experience of ADHD and/or autism, with videos using ADHD hashtags most often from the perspective of individuals with ADHD and autism videos including a broader range of perspectives from autistic creators and loved ones (parents, siblings, partners). Most content shared personal experiences, often with humorous or self-deprecating overtures. We developed several themes: (1) lived neurodivergent experiences, (2) sensory differences and experiences, (3) family and relationships, and (4) portrayals of neurodivergence. Discussion: Engaging on social media can be a powerful medium to find & enhance feelings of connection with the autistic and ADHD communities. Further research is needed to understand how users perceive or interpret such content, both within and outside the neurodivergent community.
July 30, 2025 at 4:38 AM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
“It Was a Completely Different Lens”: Autistic Adult and Parent Perceptions of Autistic-Led Autism Information Workshops by Waddington & colleagues examines perceptions of parents of autistic people who participated in autistic-led workshops.

NEW FREE to July 30

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Abstract for the paper "It Was a Completely Different Lens": Autistic Adult & Parent Perceptions of Autistic-Led Autism Information Workshops. It reads: Research shows that when autistic people mentor and share information about autism with other autistic individuals. It provides benefits. However, researchers are yet to determine whether parents of autistic children benefit from learning about autism directly from autistic people. Autistic people leading information workshops for parents of autistic children are an emerging practice. In this coproduced study, researchers used a mixed-methods approach to examine the perceptions of 12 parents of young autistic children and 7 autistic adults who participated in, or facilitated, three 2-hour autism information workshops. Quantitative survey results showed that parents were generally satisfied with the workshops, but some would have liked more time. The qualitative findings suggest that the workshops fostered a more positive narrative around autism. The workshops helped build connections both within and across groups for the autistic adults, the parents, and their autistic children. The workshop’s “cosy” nature helped participants to feel comfortable in sharing their experiences and questions. Participants expressed a preference or desire for a diverse range of facilitators. These results highlight the important role that autistic adults could play in supporting and sharing information with parents of young autistic children.
July 24, 2025 at 2:11 PM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
A Delphi study of neurodiversity affirming psychology practice with 28 psychologists and autistic adults by @rebeccaflower.bsky.social et al (2025) identifies seven principles for practice, including providing safety to be one’s autistic self and validation of the autistic experience.
Screenshot of journal article titled: “Defining Neurodiversity Affirming Psychology Practice for Autistic Adults: A Delphi Study Integrating Psychologist and Client Perspectives” by Flower et al (2025).
June 26, 2025 at 2:47 PM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
“How Autistic Adults Cope with Loneliness: What Helps and What Doesn’t?”

Su, Schiltz and Lord (2025) spoke to 13 autistic adults and 5 professionals and found reaching out to others was the most helpful strategy

FREE until 20th June

www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10....
Screenshot of journal article titled: “How Autistic Adults Cope with Loneliness: What Helps and What Doesn’t?” by Su, Schiltz and Lord (2025).
June 12, 2025 at 6:49 AM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
Research by @xspcyau.bsky.social et al (2025) shows that miscommunication and misunderstandings between autistic adults and service providers are barriers to autistic adults seeking and receiving support for mental health and suicidality

FREE until 20th June

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Screenshot of journal article titled: “Autistic Adults’ Experiences Seeking and Receiving Support for Mental Health and Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior” by Wilson et al (2025).
June 9, 2025 at 11:55 AM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
“The Experience of Itch in Autistic Adults: An Online Survey” by Tackley et al (2025) finds that autistic adults report greater itch severity and itch-related impact on their daily life than non-autistic adults.

FREE until 20th June

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
A close-up of a person scratching their arm with their opposite hand.
June 5, 2025 at 8:39 PM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
"Are Universities Ready to Support Autistic Students? A Call to Increase Coordinated Campus Efforts" by Blaskowitz et al offers three recommendations based on the literature to increase inclusion and support for autistic students

OPEN ACCESS

www-liebertpub-com.ezp.lib.cam.ac.uk/doi/10.1089/...
Table from Blaskowitz et al summarising their three recommendations: Recommendation 1—Establish person-centered planning that includes individualized accommodations: a) Support students in person-centered planning and using goal-setting tools while at college. b) Shift toward individualized accommodations driven by student need. Recommendation 2—Engage faculty as partners in inclusive best practices: a) Provide faculty with autism awareness and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) training. b) Encourage faculty to incorporate UDL principles within the classroom. c) Establish faculty mentors for autistic students. Recommendation 3—Embed opportunities and support for social–emotional learning and relationship building: a) Increase accessibility of campus events. b) Establish self-advocacy groups. c) Utilize peer mentors who are matched to an autistic student’s interests and needs.
June 2, 2025 at 8:37 PM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
SPECIAL ISSUE ON POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION: longitudinal survey by @sterroso.bsky.social & colleagues reports autistic traits were associated with depressive attribution style, an important intervention target @rowanuniversity.bsky.social

NEW, FREE to 23 May:

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Screenshot of journal article titled: 'longitudinal relationships between depressive attributional style and internalizing symptoms in an autism-enriched sample of incoming college students'
May 20, 2025 at 8:46 AM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
SPECIAL ISSUE ON POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION: reflexive thematic analysis by @kaydenstockwell.bsky.social reports barriers to accessing information for #autistic students. Structural changes can support inclusion
@uvapsychology.bsky.social

NEW, FREE To 18 May:

liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Screenshot of journal article titled '“A System That Wasn't Really Optimized for Me”: Factors Influencing Autistic University Students' Access to Information'
May 12, 2025 at 2:09 PM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
Ask us about Autism in Adulthood at #INSAR2025!

We would love to talk to you. Look out for our badges and share your views about our journal @autisminadulthood.bsky.social 👇
Image of journal cover titled 'special issue on post-secondary education'
May 1, 2025 at 9:47 PM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
SPECIAL ISSUE ON POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION: thematic analysis by @jadedavies.bsky.social & colleagues reports barriers remain despite staff dedication. Universal design principles could alleviate pressure on services @uomseed.bsky.social

NEW, FREE to 2 May

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Thematic diagram showing how university can support autistic students with three themes: (i) comprehensive preparation and support; (ii) positive communication between stakeholders; and (iii) an accessible and inclusive university culture
April 29, 2025 at 12:22 PM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
NEW!! SPECIAL ISSUE ON POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION: in this foreword, David B Nicolas & Brett Ranon Nachman ‘convey an ethic and urgency to move from an ableist orientation to a dynamic of honoring and valuing neurodiversity’

NEW, FREE to 21 Apr:

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Screenshot of journal article titled: 'Foreword: Special Issue on Autism and Postsecondary Education'
April 14, 2025 at 7:59 AM
autisminadulthood.bsky.social
Lived experience of autistic adults in employment: synthesis by David Thorpe uses social relational model of disability & reports voices of #autistic workers should be prioritised in designing work environments

READ AGAIN, FREE to 14 Feb:

www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/...
Screenshot of journal article titled 'The Lived Experience of Autistic Adults in Employment: A Systematic Search and Synthesis'
January 23, 2025 at 3:51 PM