Dépouillements

Our understanding of autistic sensory processing is limited by our questionnaire measures / Catherine MANNING in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1915-1920 Titre : Our understanding of autistic sensory processing is limited by our questionnaire measures Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Catherine MANNING, Auteur ; Georgina MOHAN, Auteur ; Lara MAHER, Auteur ; Aamina KHAN, Auteur ; Samantha L TYLER, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1915-1920 Langues : Anglais (eng) Index. décimale : PER Périodiques En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251356060 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Our understanding of autistic sensory processing is limited by our questionnaire measures [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Catherine MANNING, Auteur ; Georgina MOHAN, Auteur ; Lara MAHER, Auteur ; Aamina KHAN, Auteur ; Samantha L TYLER, Auteur . - p.1915-1920. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1915-1920 Index. décimale : PER Périodiques En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251356060 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

The use of multisensory environments in children and adults with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review / Simona LEONARDI in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1921-1938 Titre : The use of multisensory environments in children and adults with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Simona LEONARDI, Auteur ; Marcella DI CARA, Auteur ; Silvia GILIBERTO, Auteur ; Adriana PICCOLO, Auteur ; Carmela DE DOMENICO, Auteur ; Giulia LEONARDI, Auteur ; Angelo ALITO, Auteur ; Rosamaria SIRACUSANO, Auteur ; Rocco Salvatore CALABRÒ, Auteur ; Angelo QUARTARONE, Auteur ; Francesca CUCINOTTA, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1921-1938 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism  autism spectrum disorders  intervention  multisensory environment  multisensory room  rehabilitation  sensory rooms  Snoezelen®  systematic review Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Multisensory environment is a setting designed with activities and tools that offered sensory stimulation. Despite their widespread use, no evidence-based guidelines are currently available. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the impact of multisensory environment interventions in autism and to provide guidelines. We included all studies of multisensory environment interventions for autistic individuals retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct up to 30 September 2024. Two researchers appraised the included literature and extracted the data. A total of 1247 unique records were screened for eligibility, and 10 studies were included. Data extraction included demographic characteristics, type of intervention, target symptoms, and outcome measures. Quality assessment tools included the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the Cochrane Risk of Bias for randomized controlled trials. The studies were synthesized narratively based on target symptoms. Four studies reported reductions in stereotypic behavior frequency in children and adults; while other studies suggest positive effects on sustained attention, and aggressive and sensory behaviors. Overall, there was insufficient evidence due to the paucity of literature, the significant variation between interventions, and the small sample sizes. Future research should aim to develop a structured intervention approach to address the common limitations of the included designs.Lay abstract Multisensory rooms, also known as multisensory environments, are widely used in clinical practice and schools for autistic people. Despite their widespread use, their usefulness or effectiveness in achieving specific improvements is still unclear. We carry out a comprehensive and systematic quality assessment of all available studies to test the effectiveness of multisensory environment interventions in autism spectrum disorder and to explore what type of targeted intervention is needed to improve both core symptoms and associated features. The results show that multisensory environment could be a useful tool to modulate aggressive and stereotyped behaviors in autistic individuals. Although there is insufficient evidence to conclude on the efficacy of multisensory environment for other types of targets, overall, the results may provide valuable insights for the development of future studies concerning the utility of multisensory environment in therapeutic intervention. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251320424 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] The use of multisensory environments in children and adults with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Simona LEONARDI, Auteur ; Marcella DI CARA, Auteur ; Silvia GILIBERTO, Auteur ; Adriana PICCOLO, Auteur ; Carmela DE DOMENICO, Auteur ; Giulia LEONARDI, Auteur ; Angelo ALITO, Auteur ; Rosamaria SIRACUSANO, Auteur ; Rocco Salvatore CALABRÒ, Auteur ; Angelo QUARTARONE, Auteur ; Francesca CUCINOTTA, Auteur . - p.1921-1938. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1921-1938 Mots-clés : autism  autism spectrum disorders  intervention  multisensory environment  multisensory room  rehabilitation  sensory rooms  Snoezelen®  systematic review Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Multisensory environment is a setting designed with activities and tools that offered sensory stimulation. Despite their widespread use, no evidence-based guidelines are currently available. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the impact of multisensory environment interventions in autism and to provide guidelines. We included all studies of multisensory environment interventions for autistic individuals retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct up to 30 September 2024. Two researchers appraised the included literature and extracted the data. A total of 1247 unique records were screened for eligibility, and 10 studies were included. Data extraction included demographic characteristics, type of intervention, target symptoms, and outcome measures. Quality assessment tools included the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the Cochrane Risk of Bias for randomized controlled trials. The studies were synthesized narratively based on target symptoms. Four studies reported reductions in stereotypic behavior frequency in children and adults; while other studies suggest positive effects on sustained attention, and aggressive and sensory behaviors. Overall, there was insufficient evidence due to the paucity of literature, the significant variation between interventions, and the small sample sizes. Future research should aim to develop a structured intervention approach to address the common limitations of the included designs.Lay abstract Multisensory rooms, also known as multisensory environments, are widely used in clinical practice and schools for autistic people. Despite their widespread use, their usefulness or effectiveness in achieving specific improvements is still unclear. We carry out a comprehensive and systematic quality assessment of all available studies to test the effectiveness of multisensory environment interventions in autism spectrum disorder and to explore what type of targeted intervention is needed to improve both core symptoms and associated features. The results show that multisensory environment could be a useful tool to modulate aggressive and stereotyped behaviors in autistic individuals. Although there is insufficient evidence to conclude on the efficacy of multisensory environment for other types of targets, overall, the results may provide valuable insights for the development of future studies concerning the utility of multisensory environment in therapeutic intervention. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251320424 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Autism in the context of joint hypermobility, hypermobility spectrum disorders, and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes: A systematic review and prevalence meta-analyses / Carolina BAEZA-VELASCO in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1939-1958 Titre : Autism in the context of joint hypermobility, hypermobility spectrum disorders, and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes: A systematic review and prevalence meta-analyses Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Carolina BAEZA-VELASCO, Auteur ; Judith VERGNE, Auteur ; Marianna POLI, Auteur ; Larissa KALISCH, Auteur ; Raffaella CALATI, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1939-1958 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : Autism  Ehlers-Danlos syndrome  joint hypermobility  prevalence meta-analysis  systematic review Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Increasing research suggests a link between autism spectrum disorders and joint hypermobility, hypermobility spectrum disorders, and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. However, no study systematically examined the available literature about the relationship between these conditions. A systematic literature search was conducted to identify studies (a) examining the link between autism, joint hypermobility, hypermobility spectrum disorders or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and (b) reporting the frequency of autism spectrum disorders in people with joint hypermobility, hypermobility spectrum disorders or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, or vice versa. Prevalence meta-analyses were performed. Twenty articles met the inclusion criteria. Twelve studies explored joint hypermobility/hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in autistic people. Six explored autism spectrum disorders/autistic traits in people with hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Two studies examined autism spectrum disorders in relatives of patients with hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and two explored autistic traits and joint hypermobility in non-clinical samples. Out of 15 studies examining the association between autism spectrum disorders/autistic traits and joint hypermobility/hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, 12 reported significant results. The overall prevalence of joint hypermobility in autistic individuals was 22.3%, but it was higher (31%) when only studies assessing joint hypermobility clinically (excluding self-reports) were considered. The overall prevalence of hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in autistic samples was 27.9%, but 39% if hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome were assessed clinically. Despite the heterogeneity of studies, these results suggest an association between autism and joint hypermobility/hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that should be confirmed in further research.Lay abstract Increasing research suggests a link between autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and joint hypermobility (JH), hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS). However, no study systematically examined the available literature about the relationship between these conditions. To fill this gap, we conducted a systematic literature search to identify studies: (a) examining the link between autism, JH, HSD, or EDS, and (b) reporting the frequency of ASD in people with JH, HSD, or EDS, or vice versa. Prevalence meta-analyses were performed. Twenty articles met the inclusion criteria. Twelve studies explored JH/HSD/EDS in autistic people. Six explored ASD/autistic traits in people with HSD/EDS. Two studies examined ASD in relatives of patients with HSD/EDS, and two explored autistic traits and JH in non-clinical samples. Out of 15 studies examining the association between ASD/autistic traits and JH/HSD/EDS, 12 reported significant results. The overall prevalence of JH in autistic individuals was 22.3%, but it was higher (31%) when only studies assessing JH clinically (excluding self-reports) were considered. The overall prevalence of HSD/EDS in autistic samples was 27.9%, but 39% if HSD/EDS were assessed clinically. Despite the heterogeneity of studies, these results suggest an association between autism and JH/HSD/EDS that should be confirmed in further research. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251328059 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Autism in the context of joint hypermobility, hypermobility spectrum disorders, and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes: A systematic review and prevalence meta-analyses [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Carolina BAEZA-VELASCO, Auteur ; Judith VERGNE, Auteur ; Marianna POLI, Auteur ; Larissa KALISCH, Auteur ; Raffaella CALATI, Auteur . - p.1939-1958. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1939-1958 Mots-clés : Autism  Ehlers-Danlos syndrome  joint hypermobility  prevalence meta-analysis  systematic review Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Increasing research suggests a link between autism spectrum disorders and joint hypermobility, hypermobility spectrum disorders, and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. However, no study systematically examined the available literature about the relationship between these conditions. A systematic literature search was conducted to identify studies (a) examining the link between autism, joint hypermobility, hypermobility spectrum disorders or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and (b) reporting the frequency of autism spectrum disorders in people with joint hypermobility, hypermobility spectrum disorders or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, or vice versa. Prevalence meta-analyses were performed. Twenty articles met the inclusion criteria. Twelve studies explored joint hypermobility/hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in autistic people. Six explored autism spectrum disorders/autistic traits in people with hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Two studies examined autism spectrum disorders in relatives of patients with hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and two explored autistic traits and joint hypermobility in non-clinical samples. Out of 15 studies examining the association between autism spectrum disorders/autistic traits and joint hypermobility/hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, 12 reported significant results. The overall prevalence of joint hypermobility in autistic individuals was 22.3%, but it was higher (31%) when only studies assessing joint hypermobility clinically (excluding self-reports) were considered. The overall prevalence of hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in autistic samples was 27.9%, but 39% if hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome were assessed clinically. Despite the heterogeneity of studies, these results suggest an association between autism and joint hypermobility/hypermobility spectrum disorders/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that should be confirmed in further research.Lay abstract Increasing research suggests a link between autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and joint hypermobility (JH), hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS). However, no study systematically examined the available literature about the relationship between these conditions. To fill this gap, we conducted a systematic literature search to identify studies: (a) examining the link between autism, JH, HSD, or EDS, and (b) reporting the frequency of ASD in people with JH, HSD, or EDS, or vice versa. Prevalence meta-analyses were performed. Twenty articles met the inclusion criteria. Twelve studies explored JH/HSD/EDS in autistic people. Six explored ASD/autistic traits in people with HSD/EDS. Two studies examined ASD in relatives of patients with HSD/EDS, and two explored autistic traits and JH in non-clinical samples. Out of 15 studies examining the association between ASD/autistic traits and JH/HSD/EDS, 12 reported significant results. The overall prevalence of JH in autistic individuals was 22.3%, but it was higher (31%) when only studies assessing JH clinically (excluding self-reports) were considered. The overall prevalence of HSD/EDS in autistic samples was 27.9%, but 39% if HSD/EDS were assessed clinically. Despite the heterogeneity of studies, these results suggest an association between autism and JH/HSD/EDS that should be confirmed in further research. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251328059 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Consensus on high-priority outcomes to be used in the evaluation of services for autistic adults: Results from a "CBPR-Nested Delphi Process" / Christina NICOLAIDIS in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1959-1972 Titre : Consensus on high-priority outcomes to be used in the evaluation of services for autistic adults: Results from a "CBPR-Nested Delphi Process" Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Christina NICOLAIDIS, Auteur ; Mirah SCHARER, Auteur ; Dora M RAYMAKER, Auteur ; Joseph VERA, Auteur ; Todd EDWARDS, Auteur ; Ian MOURA, Auteur ; Mary BAKER-ERICZEN, Auteur ; Joelle MASLAK, Auteur ; Liu-Qin YANG, Auteur ; Rachel KRIPKE-LUDWIG, Auteur ; Steven K KAPP, Auteur ; Andrea JOYCE, Auteur ; Anna WALLINGTON, Auteur ; null NULL, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1959-1972 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autistic adults  Delphi method  community-based participatory research  patient-reported outcome measures Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : People are increasingly recognizing the need for service interventions to improve the lives of autistic adults. However, less is known about how to best evaluate such services. We aimed to identify (1) which self-reported outcomes are most important to measure when evaluating the effectiveness of services for autistic adults and (2) what survey instruments would be needed to measure them. We nested a traditional researcher-driven "Delphi process" within our community-based participatory research approach in what we are calling a "CBPR-Nested Delphi Process." The process allowed us to reach a full consensus among 53 experts with professional and lived experience as autistic adults, family members, health and disability service providers, autism community leaders, and researchers. The final list of outcomes included quality of life, overall health, emotional wellbeing, anxiety, depression, suicidality, autistic burnout, social support, employment satisfaction, community participation, self-determination, access to communication, activities of daily living, satisfaction with social services, and satisfaction with healthcare services. Experts felt almost all available instruments to measure these outcomes would need adaptations to be used with autistic adults (or proxies). Researchers and service providers should consider targeting interventions to these measurable outcomes and evaluating them using instruments that have been co-developed with autistic adults.Lay abstract Why was this project done?People are starting to recognize the need for services to improve the lives of autistic adults. But less is known about how to best evaluate such services.What were the goals of the project?To identify (1) which outcomes are most important to measure when evaluating the effectiveness of services for autistic adults and (2) how we can successfully measure them using surveys.What did the researchers do?We used a method called a "Delphi process" that gets input from lots of different experts. We used that method inside our own long-standing community-based participatory research (CBPR) process so that we could share power between the academic and community members of our team. We reached a full consensus (agreement) among 53 experts. These experts had professional and/or lived experience as autistic adults, family members, health and disability service providers, autism community leaders, and researchers.What does this study add?The final list of outcomes included quality of life, overall health, emotional wellbeing, anxiety, depression, suicidality, autistic burnout, social support, employment satisfaction, community participation, self-determination, access to communication, activities of daily living, satisfaction with social services, and satisfaction with healthcare services. Experts felt almost all available surveys that try to measure these outcomes would need adaptations to be used with autistic adults (or if needed, with their caregivers).What are the implications?Researchers and service providers should consider targeting services to these outcomes. They should evaluate the effectiveness of services using surveys that have been created with and for autistic adults. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251322082 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Consensus on high-priority outcomes to be used in the evaluation of services for autistic adults: Results from a "CBPR-Nested Delphi Process" [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Christina NICOLAIDIS, Auteur ; Mirah SCHARER, Auteur ; Dora M RAYMAKER, Auteur ; Joseph VERA, Auteur ; Todd EDWARDS, Auteur ; Ian MOURA, Auteur ; Mary BAKER-ERICZEN, Auteur ; Joelle MASLAK, Auteur ; Liu-Qin YANG, Auteur ; Rachel KRIPKE-LUDWIG, Auteur ; Steven K KAPP, Auteur ; Andrea JOYCE, Auteur ; Anna WALLINGTON, Auteur ; null NULL, Auteur . - p.1959-1972. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1959-1972 Mots-clés : autistic adults  Delphi method  community-based participatory research  patient-reported outcome measures Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : People are increasingly recognizing the need for service interventions to improve the lives of autistic adults. However, less is known about how to best evaluate such services. We aimed to identify (1) which self-reported outcomes are most important to measure when evaluating the effectiveness of services for autistic adults and (2) what survey instruments would be needed to measure them. We nested a traditional researcher-driven "Delphi process" within our community-based participatory research approach in what we are calling a "CBPR-Nested Delphi Process." The process allowed us to reach a full consensus among 53 experts with professional and lived experience as autistic adults, family members, health and disability service providers, autism community leaders, and researchers. The final list of outcomes included quality of life, overall health, emotional wellbeing, anxiety, depression, suicidality, autistic burnout, social support, employment satisfaction, community participation, self-determination, access to communication, activities of daily living, satisfaction with social services, and satisfaction with healthcare services. Experts felt almost all available instruments to measure these outcomes would need adaptations to be used with autistic adults (or proxies). Researchers and service providers should consider targeting interventions to these measurable outcomes and evaluating them using instruments that have been co-developed with autistic adults.Lay abstract Why was this project done?People are starting to recognize the need for services to improve the lives of autistic adults. But less is known about how to best evaluate such services.What were the goals of the project?To identify (1) which outcomes are most important to measure when evaluating the effectiveness of services for autistic adults and (2) how we can successfully measure them using surveys.What did the researchers do?We used a method called a "Delphi process" that gets input from lots of different experts. We used that method inside our own long-standing community-based participatory research (CBPR) process so that we could share power between the academic and community members of our team. We reached a full consensus (agreement) among 53 experts. These experts had professional and/or lived experience as autistic adults, family members, health and disability service providers, autism community leaders, and researchers.What does this study add?The final list of outcomes included quality of life, overall health, emotional wellbeing, anxiety, depression, suicidality, autistic burnout, social support, employment satisfaction, community participation, self-determination, access to communication, activities of daily living, satisfaction with social services, and satisfaction with healthcare services. Experts felt almost all available surveys that try to measure these outcomes would need adaptations to be used with autistic adults (or if needed, with their caregivers).What are the implications?Researchers and service providers should consider targeting services to these outcomes. They should evaluate the effectiveness of services using surveys that have been created with and for autistic adults. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251322082 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

A Randomized Trial of Caregiver-Mediated Function-Based Elopement Treatment for Autistic Children / Mindy SCHEITHAUER in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1973-1986 Titre : A Randomized Trial of Caregiver-Mediated Function-Based Elopement Treatment for Autistic Children Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Mindy SCHEITHAUER, Auteur ; Joanna LOMAS MEVERS, Auteur ; Lawrence SCAHILL, Auteur ; Sarah Slocum FREEMAN, Auteur ; Colin MUETHING, Auteur ; Chelsea ROCK, Auteur ; Scott GILLESPIE, Auteur ; Laura JOHNSON, Auteur ; Nathan CALL, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1973-1986 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism spectrum disorders  elopement  function-based treatment  interventions-psychosocial/behavioral  randomized clinical trial Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Elopement is a common and dangerous behavior among autistic children. Behavioral treatments can reduce elopement, but most evidence comes from small-N evaluations in specialized settings with strategies varying across studies. The current study compared the efficacy of the caregiver-mediated function-based elopement treatment to parent education program (PEP) in a 16-week randomized clinical trial of 76 autistic children (age = 4-12?years). Function-based elopement treatment involves 12 weekly appointments aimed at improving safety, identifying the function of elopement, and implementing subsequent function-based treatment strategies. No group differences were observed on the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Hyperactivity (primary outcome). Significant improvement from baseline to endpoint in function-based elopement treatment compared to parent education program participants was observed for secondary outcomes, including caregiver ratings of safety measures (p < 0.01), severity of elopement based on the Elopement Questionnaire (p < 0.01), and caregiver-collected data on elopement (p < 0.01). The Clinical Global Impression-Improvement Scale (CGI-I) rated by a treatment-blind evaluator found 31.6% of function-based elopement treatment participants improved compared to 2.6% in parent education program (p = 0.001). Improvements were maintained at a 28-week follow-up. Attrition was 5.26%, and no significant adverse events were deemed related to treatment. Function-based elopement treatment was superior to parent education program on elopement-specific outcomes and appears safe and acceptable.Lay Abstract Many autistic children exhibit wandering or running away from supervision (i.e. elopement), which can include leaving the house in the middle of the night or getting lost from a parent in a crowded location. Elopement can result in injury when the child is not supervised and is incredibly stressful for parents. Research suggests that behavioral intervention can help with elopement. However, most studies include only a few children. In addition, treatment strategies differ across studies, making it difficult to compare outcomes. The function-based elopement treatment has compiled strategies across different studies to build a 12-session treatment manual that can be followed by clinicians. The manual guides the therapist on the delivery of parent-training strategies to improve the child?s safety and reduce elopement. We compared function-based elopement treatment to a control condition where parents met weekly with a clinician for more general parent training. Children whose parents received function-based elopement treatment showed greater improvement in elopement than children whose parents received more general parent education. This result suggests that the treatment works. Further study is needed to move function-based elopement treatment into clinical practice. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251330388 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] A Randomized Trial of Caregiver-Mediated Function-Based Elopement Treatment for Autistic Children [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Mindy SCHEITHAUER, Auteur ; Joanna LOMAS MEVERS, Auteur ; Lawrence SCAHILL, Auteur ; Sarah Slocum FREEMAN, Auteur ; Colin MUETHING, Auteur ; Chelsea ROCK, Auteur ; Scott GILLESPIE, Auteur ; Laura JOHNSON, Auteur ; Nathan CALL, Auteur . - p.1973-1986. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1973-1986 Mots-clés : autism spectrum disorders  elopement  function-based treatment  interventions-psychosocial/behavioral  randomized clinical trial Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Elopement is a common and dangerous behavior among autistic children. Behavioral treatments can reduce elopement, but most evidence comes from small-N evaluations in specialized settings with strategies varying across studies. The current study compared the efficacy of the caregiver-mediated function-based elopement treatment to parent education program (PEP) in a 16-week randomized clinical trial of 76 autistic children (age = 4-12?years). Function-based elopement treatment involves 12 weekly appointments aimed at improving safety, identifying the function of elopement, and implementing subsequent function-based treatment strategies. No group differences were observed on the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Hyperactivity (primary outcome). Significant improvement from baseline to endpoint in function-based elopement treatment compared to parent education program participants was observed for secondary outcomes, including caregiver ratings of safety measures (p < 0.01), severity of elopement based on the Elopement Questionnaire (p < 0.01), and caregiver-collected data on elopement (p < 0.01). The Clinical Global Impression-Improvement Scale (CGI-I) rated by a treatment-blind evaluator found 31.6% of function-based elopement treatment participants improved compared to 2.6% in parent education program (p = 0.001). Improvements were maintained at a 28-week follow-up. Attrition was 5.26%, and no significant adverse events were deemed related to treatment. Function-based elopement treatment was superior to parent education program on elopement-specific outcomes and appears safe and acceptable.Lay Abstract Many autistic children exhibit wandering or running away from supervision (i.e. elopement), which can include leaving the house in the middle of the night or getting lost from a parent in a crowded location. Elopement can result in injury when the child is not supervised and is incredibly stressful for parents. Research suggests that behavioral intervention can help with elopement. However, most studies include only a few children. In addition, treatment strategies differ across studies, making it difficult to compare outcomes. The function-based elopement treatment has compiled strategies across different studies to build a 12-session treatment manual that can be followed by clinicians. The manual guides the therapist on the delivery of parent-training strategies to improve the child?s safety and reduce elopement. We compared function-based elopement treatment to a control condition where parents met weekly with a clinician for more general parent training. Children whose parents received function-based elopement treatment showed greater improvement in elopement than children whose parents received more general parent education. This result suggests that the treatment works. Further study is needed to move function-based elopement treatment into clinical practice. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251330388 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Play interactions of autistic preschoolers with their mothers and fathers without toys yield more positive interactions than play with toys / David OPPENHEIM in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1987-1997 Titre : Play interactions of autistic preschoolers with their mothers and fathers without toys yield more positive interactions than play with toys Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : David OPPENHEIM, Auteur ; Michal MOTTES-PELEG, Auteur ; Smadar DOLEV, Auteur ; Nurit YIRMIYA, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1987-1997 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : Autism spectrum disorders  emotional availability  fathers  parent-child interaction  play Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Observations of parent-child play with toys are often used to assess interactions between parents and non-autistic as well as autistic children, but some research indicates that play without toys may elicit more positive interactions than play with toys. The first goal of the study was to examine whether this is true in the case of autistic preschoolers by comparing their play with their parents with versus without toys. The second goal was to compare mother- and father-child interactions. Seventy-eight autistic preschooler boys were observed interacting in counterbalanced mother- and father-child play with or without toys, and interactions were coded using the Emotional Availability scales. Results revealed that for both mothers and fathers scores on all of the EA scales in the play episode without toys were higher than scores in the episode with toys. Also, almost no differences were found between children?s interactions with their mothers and fathers in both play with or without toys. Both findings broaden our understanding of the early social experiences of autistic children with their parents.Lay Abstract Researchers that study the development of young children often observe them playing with their parents with toys. However, a few studies and clinical experience suggest that the interactions between parents and children are often more positive when they play without toys. The first goal of the study was to find out if this is true for autistic preschoolers. We observed 78 children playing with each of their parents, and compared their play with and without toys. The second goal of the study was to compare mother- and father-child interactions to discover if they are similar or different from one another. We measured the emotional quality of parent-child interactions using scales that measure the behavior of both parents and children toward one another. We studied only boys because autism may present differently in girls. We discovered that both parents' and children?s behavior were more positive when they were playing without toys compared to when they were playing with toys. Also, when we compared the emotional quality of how children played with their mothers and their fathers we found almost no differences, both in how the parents and the children behaved. The findings are important because they can guide researchers, clinicians, and parents to include both play with toys and play without toys in studies, interventions, and daily life. They also emphasize the importance of fathers, because although the fathers in the study were somewhat less involved in everyday caregiving with their children compared to mothers, they had interactions with the children that were as positive as those children had with their mothers. Importantly, we do not know if the findings apply to autistic girls as well. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251329975 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Play interactions of autistic preschoolers with their mothers and fathers without toys yield more positive interactions than play with toys [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / David OPPENHEIM, Auteur ; Michal MOTTES-PELEG, Auteur ; Smadar DOLEV, Auteur ; Nurit YIRMIYA, Auteur . - p.1987-1997. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1987-1997 Mots-clés : Autism spectrum disorders  emotional availability  fathers  parent-child interaction  play Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Observations of parent-child play with toys are often used to assess interactions between parents and non-autistic as well as autistic children, but some research indicates that play without toys may elicit more positive interactions than play with toys. The first goal of the study was to examine whether this is true in the case of autistic preschoolers by comparing their play with their parents with versus without toys. The second goal was to compare mother- and father-child interactions. Seventy-eight autistic preschooler boys were observed interacting in counterbalanced mother- and father-child play with or without toys, and interactions were coded using the Emotional Availability scales. Results revealed that for both mothers and fathers scores on all of the EA scales in the play episode without toys were higher than scores in the episode with toys. Also, almost no differences were found between children?s interactions with their mothers and fathers in both play with or without toys. Both findings broaden our understanding of the early social experiences of autistic children with their parents.Lay Abstract Researchers that study the development of young children often observe them playing with their parents with toys. However, a few studies and clinical experience suggest that the interactions between parents and children are often more positive when they play without toys. The first goal of the study was to find out if this is true for autistic preschoolers. We observed 78 children playing with each of their parents, and compared their play with and without toys. The second goal of the study was to compare mother- and father-child interactions to discover if they are similar or different from one another. We measured the emotional quality of parent-child interactions using scales that measure the behavior of both parents and children toward one another. We studied only boys because autism may present differently in girls. We discovered that both parents' and children?s behavior were more positive when they were playing without toys compared to when they were playing with toys. Also, when we compared the emotional quality of how children played with their mothers and their fathers we found almost no differences, both in how the parents and the children behaved. The findings are important because they can guide researchers, clinicians, and parents to include both play with toys and play without toys in studies, interventions, and daily life. They also emphasize the importance of fathers, because although the fathers in the study were somewhat less involved in everyday caregiving with their children compared to mothers, they had interactions with the children that were as positive as those children had with their mothers. Importantly, we do not know if the findings apply to autistic girls as well. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251329975 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Understanding Repetitive Behaviours: A clinical and cost-effectiveness, multi-site randomised controlled trial of a group for parents and carers of young autistic children / Victoria GRAHAME in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1998-2015 Titre : Understanding Repetitive Behaviours: A clinical and cost-effectiveness, multi-site randomised controlled trial of a group for parents and carers of young autistic children Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Victoria GRAHAME, Auteur ; Ashleigh KERNOHAN, Auteur ; Ehsan KHARATI, Auteur ; Ayesha MATHIAS, Auteur ; Chrissie BUTCHER, Auteur ; Linda DIXON, Auteur ; Sue FLETCHER-WATSON, Auteur ; Deborah GARLAND, Auteur ; Magdalena GLOD, Auteur ; Jane GOODWIN, Auteur ; Saoirse HERON, Auteur ; Emma HONEY, Auteur ; Ann LE COUTEUR, Auteur ; Leila MACKIE, Auteur ; Jessica MAXWELL, Auteur ; Lewis MONTGOMERY, Auteur ; Emmanuel OGUNDIMU, Auteur ; Helen PROBERT, Auteur ; Deborah RIBY, Auteur ; Priyanka ROB, Auteur ; Leanne ROGAN, Auteur ; Laura TAVERNOR, Auteur ; Luke VALE, Auteur ; Elspeth Imogen WEBB, Auteur ; Christopher WEETMAN, Auteur ; Jacqui RODGERS, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1998-2015 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism spectrum disorders  interventions - psychosocial/behavioural  pre-school children  school-age children Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Restricted and repetitive behaviours vary greatly between autistic people. Some are a source of pleasure or create opportunities for learning; others may be detrimental in day-to-day life or cause harm. We have developed, in close collaboration with parents/carers, the Understanding Repetitive Behaviours programme, designed for families of young autistic children, to help them recognise, understand and respond sensitively to their child?s impactful restricted and repetitive behaviours. This study is a clinical and cost-effectiveness, multi-site randomised controlled trial of the Understanding Repetitive Behaviours parent programme versus a psychoeducation programme (equivalent to current best practice), learning about autism. Participants were parents/carers, with an autistic child aged between 3-9?years and 11?months. The study was delivered across three sites in England and Scotland. Analyses were completed using intention-to-treat principles. Two hundred and twenty seven families were randomised (113 in LAA; 114 in Understanding Repetitive Behaviours arm). No differences were found between the arms on the primary outcome measure (The Clinical Global Impression - Improvement scale). Analysis of secondary outcomes indicated that children in the Understanding Repetitive Behaviours arm were more likely to be rated as responders in target impactful restricted and repetitive behaviours at 24?weeks but that this effect was not maintained at 52?weeks. Improvements in parent and family functioning were apparent, with no evidence of differences between the arms. The study reconfirms that it is important that clinicians consider both restricted and repetitive behaviours and social communication needs of autistic children with parents when planning appropriate support.Lay abstract Autistic children, frequently repeat the same behaviours over and over, have specific interests or like things to stay the same. These behaviours and interests are often fun and helpful. However, sometimes they can impact negatively on day-to-day life or put the child at risk of harm. Working closely with parents of autistic children, we developed an 8-week programme (Understanding Repetitive Behaviours) to help them recognise and understand these behaviours. This study aimed to find out whether the understanding repetitive behaviour programme was helpful and good value for money. Two hundred and twenty seven families were allocated by chance to receive either Understanding Repetitive Behaviours or a learning about autism programme. When experts made judgements about whether children showed positive changes across various measures, and these were analysed, there were no differences between the programmes. However, parents who attended the Understanding Repetitive Behaviours programme reported improvement in one of their child?s specific repetitive behaviour (selected to be the main focus of the Understanding Repetitive Behaviours programme) at 24?weeks after the end of the programme. Parents who attended either programme reported more confidence, greater wellbeing and less stress up to 1?year after the end of the study. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251333175 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Understanding Repetitive Behaviours: A clinical and cost-effectiveness, multi-site randomised controlled trial of a group for parents and carers of young autistic children [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Victoria GRAHAME, Auteur ; Ashleigh KERNOHAN, Auteur ; Ehsan KHARATI, Auteur ; Ayesha MATHIAS, Auteur ; Chrissie BUTCHER, Auteur ; Linda DIXON, Auteur ; Sue FLETCHER-WATSON, Auteur ; Deborah GARLAND, Auteur ; Magdalena GLOD, Auteur ; Jane GOODWIN, Auteur ; Saoirse HERON, Auteur ; Emma HONEY, Auteur ; Ann LE COUTEUR, Auteur ; Leila MACKIE, Auteur ; Jessica MAXWELL, Auteur ; Lewis MONTGOMERY, Auteur ; Emmanuel OGUNDIMU, Auteur ; Helen PROBERT, Auteur ; Deborah RIBY, Auteur ; Priyanka ROB, Auteur ; Leanne ROGAN, Auteur ; Laura TAVERNOR, Auteur ; Luke VALE, Auteur ; Elspeth Imogen WEBB, Auteur ; Christopher WEETMAN, Auteur ; Jacqui RODGERS, Auteur . - p.1998-2015. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.1998-2015 Mots-clés : autism spectrum disorders  interventions - psychosocial/behavioural  pre-school children  school-age children Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Restricted and repetitive behaviours vary greatly between autistic people. Some are a source of pleasure or create opportunities for learning; others may be detrimental in day-to-day life or cause harm. We have developed, in close collaboration with parents/carers, the Understanding Repetitive Behaviours programme, designed for families of young autistic children, to help them recognise, understand and respond sensitively to their child?s impactful restricted and repetitive behaviours. This study is a clinical and cost-effectiveness, multi-site randomised controlled trial of the Understanding Repetitive Behaviours parent programme versus a psychoeducation programme (equivalent to current best practice), learning about autism. Participants were parents/carers, with an autistic child aged between 3-9?years and 11?months. The study was delivered across three sites in England and Scotland. Analyses were completed using intention-to-treat principles. Two hundred and twenty seven families were randomised (113 in LAA; 114 in Understanding Repetitive Behaviours arm). No differences were found between the arms on the primary outcome measure (The Clinical Global Impression - Improvement scale). Analysis of secondary outcomes indicated that children in the Understanding Repetitive Behaviours arm were more likely to be rated as responders in target impactful restricted and repetitive behaviours at 24?weeks but that this effect was not maintained at 52?weeks. Improvements in parent and family functioning were apparent, with no evidence of differences between the arms. The study reconfirms that it is important that clinicians consider both restricted and repetitive behaviours and social communication needs of autistic children with parents when planning appropriate support.Lay abstract Autistic children, frequently repeat the same behaviours over and over, have specific interests or like things to stay the same. These behaviours and interests are often fun and helpful. However, sometimes they can impact negatively on day-to-day life or put the child at risk of harm. Working closely with parents of autistic children, we developed an 8-week programme (Understanding Repetitive Behaviours) to help them recognise and understand these behaviours. This study aimed to find out whether the understanding repetitive behaviour programme was helpful and good value for money. Two hundred and twenty seven families were allocated by chance to receive either Understanding Repetitive Behaviours or a learning about autism programme. When experts made judgements about whether children showed positive changes across various measures, and these were analysed, there were no differences between the programmes. However, parents who attended the Understanding Repetitive Behaviours programme reported improvement in one of their child?s specific repetitive behaviour (selected to be the main focus of the Understanding Repetitive Behaviours programme) at 24?weeks after the end of the programme. Parents who attended either programme reported more confidence, greater wellbeing and less stress up to 1?year after the end of the study. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251333175 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

The development and utilization of a diversity advisory board in an intervention to support social skill development for autistic transition-aged youth / Ed-Dee G WILLIAMS in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2016-2029 Titre : The development and utilization of a diversity advisory board in an intervention to support social skill development for autistic transition-aged youth Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Ed-Dee G WILLIAMS, Auteur ; Matthew J SMITH, Auteur ; Jamie MITCHELL, Auteur ; Ty B TUCKER, Auteur ; Connie SUNG, Auteur ; Kari SHERWOOD, Auteur ; Sarah DABABNAH, Auteur ; Sandy MAGAÑA, Auteur ; Temple LOVELACE, Auteur ; Shanna K KATTARI, Auteur ; Dale OLSEN, Auteur ; Jeff ELKINS, Auteur ; Laura HUMM, Auteur ; Chris STEACY, Auteur ; Edwina RIDDLE, Auteur ; Caleb LIGGETT, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2016-2029 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : advisory board  community engagement  diversity Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Recent discourse has identified significant issues surrounding the lack of diversity in autism-related research. However, recent efforts have called for the regular use of diversity advisory boards (DAB) in autism-related research to improve the inclusivity of underrepresented and marginalized groups included in the growing autism scholarship. This article outlines the development and implementation of a DAB to support the design and evaluation of an innovative intervention, WorkChat: A Virtual Workday. Specifically, WorkChat focuses on improving knowledge and practicing conversational skills with virtual customers, coworkers, and supervisors to support workplace interactions for autistic transition-age youth. Here, we share guidelines for developing, utilizing, and maintaining a DAB, as well as recommended practices and future implications for implementing DABs in autism services research while using the WorkChat DAB as a case study. The goal is to support the further use of DABs as a means of significantly improving the inclusion of underrepresented and marginalized identities including racial, gender, and sexual minorities, and individuals with disabilities in autism services research.Lay Abstract Autism research often does not include enough people with different identities such as different races, genders, and sexualities. Sometimes, support for autistic individuals does not help everyone equally. They often work better for white, straight autistic males. This article will talk about how we are trying to make autism research more diverse. We will share how we are using a group of diverse advisors to help with research. We will also talk about how to use these advisor groups in the future for autism research. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251330847 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] The development and utilization of a diversity advisory board in an intervention to support social skill development for autistic transition-aged youth [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Ed-Dee G WILLIAMS, Auteur ; Matthew J SMITH, Auteur ; Jamie MITCHELL, Auteur ; Ty B TUCKER, Auteur ; Connie SUNG, Auteur ; Kari SHERWOOD, Auteur ; Sarah DABABNAH, Auteur ; Sandy MAGAÑA, Auteur ; Temple LOVELACE, Auteur ; Shanna K KATTARI, Auteur ; Dale OLSEN, Auteur ; Jeff ELKINS, Auteur ; Laura HUMM, Auteur ; Chris STEACY, Auteur ; Edwina RIDDLE, Auteur ; Caleb LIGGETT, Auteur . - p.2016-2029. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2016-2029 Mots-clés : advisory board  community engagement  diversity Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Recent discourse has identified significant issues surrounding the lack of diversity in autism-related research. However, recent efforts have called for the regular use of diversity advisory boards (DAB) in autism-related research to improve the inclusivity of underrepresented and marginalized groups included in the growing autism scholarship. This article outlines the development and implementation of a DAB to support the design and evaluation of an innovative intervention, WorkChat: A Virtual Workday. Specifically, WorkChat focuses on improving knowledge and practicing conversational skills with virtual customers, coworkers, and supervisors to support workplace interactions for autistic transition-age youth. Here, we share guidelines for developing, utilizing, and maintaining a DAB, as well as recommended practices and future implications for implementing DABs in autism services research while using the WorkChat DAB as a case study. The goal is to support the further use of DABs as a means of significantly improving the inclusion of underrepresented and marginalized identities including racial, gender, and sexual minorities, and individuals with disabilities in autism services research.Lay Abstract Autism research often does not include enough people with different identities such as different races, genders, and sexualities. Sometimes, support for autistic individuals does not help everyone equally. They often work better for white, straight autistic males. This article will talk about how we are trying to make autism research more diverse. We will share how we are using a group of diverse advisors to help with research. We will also talk about how to use these advisor groups in the future for autism research. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251330847 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

The moderating role of co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in social skills group training for autistic children and adolescents / Anna FRIDELL in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2030-2043 Titre : The moderating role of co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in social skills group training for autistic children and adolescents Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Anna FRIDELL, Auteur ; Nora CHOQUE OLSSON, Auteur ; Christina COCO, Auteur ; Sven BÖLTE, Auteur ; Ulf JONSSON, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2030-2043 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder  autism  clinically relevant change  interaction  intervention  moderator analysis  personalized medicine  reliable change  response Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Social skills group training is frequently used to support autistic children and adolescents in coping with everyday social demands and expectations. Meta-analytic studies suggest small to medium effect sizes. Effect moderators must be better understood to inform implementation and allow optimization of intervention protocols. Using data from two pragmatic randomized trials (N = 241) of the KONTAKT? social skills group training program as an add-on to standard care in clinical settings, we aimed to explore the moderating role of co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children (7-12 years) and adolescents (13-18?years). Two distinct response criteria were defined based on the parent-rated Social Responsiveness Scale: reliable improvement (?25 points) and clinically relevant improvement (?10 points). Moderator analyses indicated that the intervention effect was moderated by co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and age group. Logistic regressions stratified by co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder showed significant effects among those without attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (n = 63), both in terms of reliable improvement (odds ratio: 11.85, p = 0.002) and clinically relevant improvement (odds ratio: 10.00, p = 0.001). In contrast, no significant effects were observed in those with co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (n = 178). Explorative analyses further stratified by age suggested significant effects in adolescents, but not children, with co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The findings preliminarily suggest that autistic children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder may need other or additional support.Lay abstract Social skills group training can help some autistic children and adolescents improve their social life. Still, the positive effects may be less clear for those who also have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. We used data from two previous projects evaluating the effects of a social skills group training program called KONTAKT? as an addition to the common healthcare provided. Our study included 241 children (8-12 years) and adolescents (13-18?years). To determine whether the participants had improved their social skills, we used ratings provided by the parents before and after the training and 3?months later. We then explored if KONTAKT led to improvement for autistic children and adolescents with and without attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Autistic children and adolescents often struggle to understand others and express themselves in everyday social situations. These challenges can create barriers to well-being and future life chances. Social skills group training can improve social skills in some autistic youths, but not all will benefit equally from the training. It is therefore important to better understand whether some groups need more support or other forms of assistance. Many autistic children and adolescents also have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, which can make the training of social skills more complicated. We found that both children and adolescents can benefit from KONTAKT. Still, preadolescent autistic children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder did not seem to improve as a result of the training. Based on these findings, it is important to find additional strategies to support this specific group of autistic children in handling social situations. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251331993 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] The moderating role of co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in social skills group training for autistic children and adolescents [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Anna FRIDELL, Auteur ; Nora CHOQUE OLSSON, Auteur ; Christina COCO, Auteur ; Sven BÖLTE, Auteur ; Ulf JONSSON, Auteur . - p.2030-2043. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2030-2043 Mots-clés : attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder  autism  clinically relevant change  interaction  intervention  moderator analysis  personalized medicine  reliable change  response Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Social skills group training is frequently used to support autistic children and adolescents in coping with everyday social demands and expectations. Meta-analytic studies suggest small to medium effect sizes. Effect moderators must be better understood to inform implementation and allow optimization of intervention protocols. Using data from two pragmatic randomized trials (N = 241) of the KONTAKT? social skills group training program as an add-on to standard care in clinical settings, we aimed to explore the moderating role of co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children (7-12 years) and adolescents (13-18?years). Two distinct response criteria were defined based on the parent-rated Social Responsiveness Scale: reliable improvement (?25 points) and clinically relevant improvement (?10 points). Moderator analyses indicated that the intervention effect was moderated by co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and age group. Logistic regressions stratified by co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder showed significant effects among those without attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (n = 63), both in terms of reliable improvement (odds ratio: 11.85, p = 0.002) and clinically relevant improvement (odds ratio: 10.00, p = 0.001). In contrast, no significant effects were observed in those with co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (n = 178). Explorative analyses further stratified by age suggested significant effects in adolescents, but not children, with co-occurring attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The findings preliminarily suggest that autistic children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder may need other or additional support.Lay abstract Social skills group training can help some autistic children and adolescents improve their social life. Still, the positive effects may be less clear for those who also have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. We used data from two previous projects evaluating the effects of a social skills group training program called KONTAKT? as an addition to the common healthcare provided. Our study included 241 children (8-12 years) and adolescents (13-18?years). To determine whether the participants had improved their social skills, we used ratings provided by the parents before and after the training and 3?months later. We then explored if KONTAKT led to improvement for autistic children and adolescents with and without attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Autistic children and adolescents often struggle to understand others and express themselves in everyday social situations. These challenges can create barriers to well-being and future life chances. Social skills group training can improve social skills in some autistic youths, but not all will benefit equally from the training. It is therefore important to better understand whether some groups need more support or other forms of assistance. Many autistic children and adolescents also have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, which can make the training of social skills more complicated. We found that both children and adolescents can benefit from KONTAKT. Still, preadolescent autistic children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder did not seem to improve as a result of the training. Based on these findings, it is important to find additional strategies to support this specific group of autistic children in handling social situations. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251331993 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Healthcare providers' practices in identifying and managing constipation in autistic adults: A qualitative study of facilities across France / Wynn SMITH in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2044-2057 Titre : Healthcare providers' practices in identifying and managing constipation in autistic adults: A qualitative study of facilities across France Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Wynn SMITH, Auteur ; Charlotte DESPREZ, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2044-2057 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : adults  autism spectrum disorder  constipation  healthcare providers  qualitative research Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Constipation is a common comorbidity among autistic adults, yet diagnosing and managing it poses unique challenges, notably due to communication barriers and a lack of specific guidelines. The study explores the professional practices of healthcare providers (HCPs) in managing constipation among autistic adults, the symptoms they identify, their management strategies, and the sources of knowledge guiding their practices. A qualitative approach was used, involving semi-structured interviews with ten HCPs, supplemented by twelve online questionnaires. Thematic analysis revealed three overarching themes: (1) HCPs acknowledged challenges in identifying constipation in autistic patients, relying on clinical markers and behavioral cues; (2) HCPs described assessment tools and preventive strategies in managing constipation; and (3) HCPs identified challenges and strategies in managing constipation in autistic adults, adopting a collaborative approach, while exposing a lack of specific training. Findings indicate that HCPs depend on non-verbal cues and behavioral changes, such as increased agitation, irritability, and altered motor patterns, to detect constipation. Variability in treatment protocols and limited formal training underscores the need for more structured training and standardized approaches. The study suggests that improved collaboration among HCPs and with families could lead to more consistent and effective care.Lay abstract Constipation is common among autistic adults, but it can be difficult to diagnose and treat notably because of difficulties in communicating and a lack of clear guidelines. This study considered how healthcare providers (HCPs) in France handle constipation in autistic adults. The research involved interviews with ten HCPs from various medical-social facilities and 12 online questionnaires. The study found three main points: Identifying Constipation: HCPs often struggle to recognize constipation in autistic adults. They rely on physical signs and changes in behavior, such as increased agitation, irritability, and singular ways of acting. Managing Constipation: HCPs use various strategies to manage constipation, focusing on prevention, yet lack clear guidelines for assessment. Challenges and Strategies: HCPs face many challenges, including a lack of specific training. They emphasize working in multidisciplinary teams and with families to manage constipation effectively. The study highlights that better training and standardized guidelines are needed to help HCPs provide consistent and effective care. Improving teamwork among HCPs and with families can lead to better outcomes for autistic adults with constipation. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251333829 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Healthcare providers' practices in identifying and managing constipation in autistic adults: A qualitative study of facilities across France [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Wynn SMITH, Auteur ; Charlotte DESPREZ, Auteur . - p.2044-2057. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2044-2057 Mots-clés : adults  autism spectrum disorder  constipation  healthcare providers  qualitative research Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Constipation is a common comorbidity among autistic adults, yet diagnosing and managing it poses unique challenges, notably due to communication barriers and a lack of specific guidelines. The study explores the professional practices of healthcare providers (HCPs) in managing constipation among autistic adults, the symptoms they identify, their management strategies, and the sources of knowledge guiding their practices. A qualitative approach was used, involving semi-structured interviews with ten HCPs, supplemented by twelve online questionnaires. Thematic analysis revealed three overarching themes: (1) HCPs acknowledged challenges in identifying constipation in autistic patients, relying on clinical markers and behavioral cues; (2) HCPs described assessment tools and preventive strategies in managing constipation; and (3) HCPs identified challenges and strategies in managing constipation in autistic adults, adopting a collaborative approach, while exposing a lack of specific training. Findings indicate that HCPs depend on non-verbal cues and behavioral changes, such as increased agitation, irritability, and altered motor patterns, to detect constipation. Variability in treatment protocols and limited formal training underscores the need for more structured training and standardized approaches. The study suggests that improved collaboration among HCPs and with families could lead to more consistent and effective care.Lay abstract Constipation is common among autistic adults, but it can be difficult to diagnose and treat notably because of difficulties in communicating and a lack of clear guidelines. This study considered how healthcare providers (HCPs) in France handle constipation in autistic adults. The research involved interviews with ten HCPs from various medical-social facilities and 12 online questionnaires. The study found three main points: Identifying Constipation: HCPs often struggle to recognize constipation in autistic adults. They rely on physical signs and changes in behavior, such as increased agitation, irritability, and singular ways of acting. Managing Constipation: HCPs use various strategies to manage constipation, focusing on prevention, yet lack clear guidelines for assessment. Challenges and Strategies: HCPs face many challenges, including a lack of specific training. They emphasize working in multidisciplinary teams and with families to manage constipation effectively. The study highlights that better training and standardized guidelines are needed to help HCPs provide consistent and effective care. Improving teamwork among HCPs and with families can lead to better outcomes for autistic adults with constipation. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251333829 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Demographic, ecological and social predictors of quality of life among parents of autistic children: A multi-centre cross-sectional study / Raghad AbdulKareen Abdoun AL-JANABI in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2058-2071 Titre : Demographic, ecological and social predictors of quality of life among parents of autistic children: A multi-centre cross-sectional study Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Raghad AbdulKareen Abdoun AL-JANABI, Auteur ; Zainab Ali SALEEM, Auteur ; Faris LAMI, Auteur ; Osamah Abbas JABER, Auteur ; Shatha Mohammed JASIM, Auteur ; Nahid DEHGHAN NAYERI, Auteur ; Mahdi SHAFIEE SABET, Auteur ; Ghaith AL-GBURI, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2058-2071 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism  demographic  marital satisfaction  parental disagreement  parenting  quality of life  social support Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Parents experience lower quality of life due to the psychological, financial and social challenges of caring for an autistic child. This study aims to identify the independent demographic and social predictors of parents' quality of life, to allocate support to parents who truly need it. Al-Subtain Academy and Baghdad?s National Center for Autism recruited 248 parents in a cross-sectional study from 3 January to 13 September 2024. Demographics, quality of life and social support were assessed using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Multiple linear regression models were significant for all domains except role functioning (p = 0.258). The explained variance ranged from 50.8% for health perception to 19.5% for physical functioning. Mothers reported lower health perception and physical functioning than fathers (p = 0.015, p < 0.001). Parents with chronic condition also reported lower health perception, mental health, social functioning and higher pain scores (p-values: <0.001, 0.029, 0.023, 0.014). In addition, parents of female children and those with comorbidities reported lower mental health (p-values: 0.018, 0.004). Marital satisfaction was positively associated with all domains except pain (negative association) and physical/role functioning (no association). In conclusion, mothers, younger parents, parents with chronic conditions or female children, or whose children have comorbidities should be prioritised during interventions that promote family functioning and social support.Lay Abstract Parents can face emotional and social challenges when taking care of autistic children, which can lower their quality of life. These challenges do not affect all parents in the same way. That is why we need to find out which parents are having more trouble, so that we can give more support to those who need it the most. Our goal was to identify which background and social factors are linked to lower quality of life in parents of autistic children. First, we found that parents of autistic children have lower mental and social well-being than physical quality of life. We argued that the type of challenges faced by parents might be the cause. We also detected lower quality of life among mothers, younger parents, parents with long-term conditions or autistic daughters, or whose children have other conditions besides autism. Finally, we found that marital satisfaction was the most important element in social support. Marital satisfaction is linked to a better quality of life in all areas except being able to do normal daily tasks and physical activities. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251334166 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Demographic, ecological and social predictors of quality of life among parents of autistic children: A multi-centre cross-sectional study [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Raghad AbdulKareen Abdoun AL-JANABI, Auteur ; Zainab Ali SALEEM, Auteur ; Faris LAMI, Auteur ; Osamah Abbas JABER, Auteur ; Shatha Mohammed JASIM, Auteur ; Nahid DEHGHAN NAYERI, Auteur ; Mahdi SHAFIEE SABET, Auteur ; Ghaith AL-GBURI, Auteur . - p.2058-2071. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2058-2071 Mots-clés : autism  demographic  marital satisfaction  parental disagreement  parenting  quality of life  social support Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Parents experience lower quality of life due to the psychological, financial and social challenges of caring for an autistic child. This study aims to identify the independent demographic and social predictors of parents' quality of life, to allocate support to parents who truly need it. Al-Subtain Academy and Baghdad?s National Center for Autism recruited 248 parents in a cross-sectional study from 3 January to 13 September 2024. Demographics, quality of life and social support were assessed using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Multiple linear regression models were significant for all domains except role functioning (p = 0.258). The explained variance ranged from 50.8% for health perception to 19.5% for physical functioning. Mothers reported lower health perception and physical functioning than fathers (p = 0.015, p < 0.001). Parents with chronic condition also reported lower health perception, mental health, social functioning and higher pain scores (p-values: <0.001, 0.029, 0.023, 0.014). In addition, parents of female children and those with comorbidities reported lower mental health (p-values: 0.018, 0.004). Marital satisfaction was positively associated with all domains except pain (negative association) and physical/role functioning (no association). In conclusion, mothers, younger parents, parents with chronic conditions or female children, or whose children have comorbidities should be prioritised during interventions that promote family functioning and social support.Lay Abstract Parents can face emotional and social challenges when taking care of autistic children, which can lower their quality of life. These challenges do not affect all parents in the same way. That is why we need to find out which parents are having more trouble, so that we can give more support to those who need it the most. Our goal was to identify which background and social factors are linked to lower quality of life in parents of autistic children. First, we found that parents of autistic children have lower mental and social well-being than physical quality of life. We argued that the type of challenges faced by parents might be the cause. We also detected lower quality of life among mothers, younger parents, parents with long-term conditions or autistic daughters, or whose children have other conditions besides autism. Finally, we found that marital satisfaction was the most important element in social support. Marital satisfaction is linked to a better quality of life in all areas except being able to do normal daily tasks and physical activities. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251334166 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

"I?m not feeling alone in my experiences": How newly diagnosed autistic adults engage with a neurodiversity-affirming "Welcome Pack" / Chris EDWARDS in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2072-2083 Titre : "I?m not feeling alone in my experiences": How newly diagnosed autistic adults engage with a neurodiversity-affirming "Welcome Pack" Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Chris EDWARDS, Auteur ; Abigail MA LOVE, Auteur ; Ru Ying CAI, Auteur ; Melanie HEYWORTH, Auteur ; Alexandra JOHNSTON, Auteur ; Fiona ALDRIDGE, Auteur ; Vicki GIBBS, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2072-2083 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autistic adult  diagnosis  late-diagnosed  neurodiversity-affirming  post-diagnostic  self-guided Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Receiving an autism diagnosis in adulthood can be profoundly transformative, yet many newly diagnosed autistic adults experience a lack of accessible, affirming post-diagnostic support. This study explores how a self-guided, neurodiversity-affirming resource-the "Welcome Pack"-supports newly diagnosed autistic adults in navigating their evolving identity. Using a qualitative approach, we recruited 11 autistic adults without intellectual disability in Australia who had received a diagnosis within the past 6?months. Participants engaged with the "Welcome Pack" over a 2-month period before taking part in semi-structured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis generated four key themes: (1) a sense of belonging through community and representation, as participants found validation in shared narratives; (2) the "Welcome Pack" as one of many tools supporting their self-understanding; (3) emotional reflections, including both relief and grief over years of masking; and (4) challenges in self-advocacy and educating others. While participants described the "Welcome Pack" as an important and validating resource, they also highlighted the need for additional structured peer support and practical guidance. These findings underscore the value of integrating self-guided resources within broader post-diagnostic ecosystems, ensuring that newly diagnosed autistic adults receive timely, accessible, and neurodiversity-affirming support as they navigate their identity.Lay Abstract Many autistic people receive a diagnosis in adulthood, often after years of feeling different but not knowing why. While a diagnosis can bring relief, it can also be overwhelming, with few accessible and affirming post-diagnostic supports available. This study explores how a free, self-guided resource-the "Welcome Pack"-helps newly diagnosed autistic adults navigate this transition. The "Welcome Pack," developed by autistic people, includes personal stories, practical advice, and reflection activities to support self-understanding and identity development. We worked with 11 autistic adults in Australia who had been diagnosed within the past 6?months. After using the "Welcome Pack" for 2?months, they shared their experiences through interviews. Our analysis identified four key themes. First, participants felt validated and less alone when reading personal stories from other autistic people. Second, they found the "Welcome Pack" useful but emphasized the need for additional resources. Third, they reflected on the emotional impact of their diagnosis, describing both relief and grief over years of masking (hiding or suppressing their autistic traits to fit in or avoid judgment). Finally, they faced challenges in self-advocacy and explaining autism to others. Overall, participants valued the "Welcome Pack" as a helpful starting point, but they also highlighted the need for more structured peer support and workplace advocacy tools. These findings suggest that while self-guided resources can provide meaningful support, they should be integrated with broader community and professional services to better meet the needs of newly diagnosed autistic adults. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335070 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] "I?m not feeling alone in my experiences": How newly diagnosed autistic adults engage with a neurodiversity-affirming "Welcome Pack" [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Chris EDWARDS, Auteur ; Abigail MA LOVE, Auteur ; Ru Ying CAI, Auteur ; Melanie HEYWORTH, Auteur ; Alexandra JOHNSTON, Auteur ; Fiona ALDRIDGE, Auteur ; Vicki GIBBS, Auteur . - p.2072-2083. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2072-2083 Mots-clés : autistic adult  diagnosis  late-diagnosed  neurodiversity-affirming  post-diagnostic  self-guided Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Receiving an autism diagnosis in adulthood can be profoundly transformative, yet many newly diagnosed autistic adults experience a lack of accessible, affirming post-diagnostic support. This study explores how a self-guided, neurodiversity-affirming resource-the "Welcome Pack"-supports newly diagnosed autistic adults in navigating their evolving identity. Using a qualitative approach, we recruited 11 autistic adults without intellectual disability in Australia who had received a diagnosis within the past 6?months. Participants engaged with the "Welcome Pack" over a 2-month period before taking part in semi-structured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis generated four key themes: (1) a sense of belonging through community and representation, as participants found validation in shared narratives; (2) the "Welcome Pack" as one of many tools supporting their self-understanding; (3) emotional reflections, including both relief and grief over years of masking; and (4) challenges in self-advocacy and educating others. While participants described the "Welcome Pack" as an important and validating resource, they also highlighted the need for additional structured peer support and practical guidance. These findings underscore the value of integrating self-guided resources within broader post-diagnostic ecosystems, ensuring that newly diagnosed autistic adults receive timely, accessible, and neurodiversity-affirming support as they navigate their identity.Lay Abstract Many autistic people receive a diagnosis in adulthood, often after years of feeling different but not knowing why. While a diagnosis can bring relief, it can also be overwhelming, with few accessible and affirming post-diagnostic supports available. This study explores how a free, self-guided resource-the "Welcome Pack"-helps newly diagnosed autistic adults navigate this transition. The "Welcome Pack," developed by autistic people, includes personal stories, practical advice, and reflection activities to support self-understanding and identity development. We worked with 11 autistic adults in Australia who had been diagnosed within the past 6?months. After using the "Welcome Pack" for 2?months, they shared their experiences through interviews. Our analysis identified four key themes. First, participants felt validated and less alone when reading personal stories from other autistic people. Second, they found the "Welcome Pack" useful but emphasized the need for additional resources. Third, they reflected on the emotional impact of their diagnosis, describing both relief and grief over years of masking (hiding or suppressing their autistic traits to fit in or avoid judgment). Finally, they faced challenges in self-advocacy and explaining autism to others. Overall, participants valued the "Welcome Pack" as a helpful starting point, but they also highlighted the need for more structured peer support and workplace advocacy tools. These findings suggest that while self-guided resources can provide meaningful support, they should be integrated with broader community and professional services to better meet the needs of newly diagnosed autistic adults. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335070 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

'We?re quite good at thinking outside the box: Early autistic sensory experiences expressed by autistic adults and caregivers of autistic children / Katy L UNWIN in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2084-2096 Titre : 'We?re quite good at thinking outside the box: Early autistic sensory experiences expressed by autistic adults and caregivers of autistic children Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Katy L UNWIN, Auteur ; Kelsey PHILPOTT-ROBINSON, Auteur ; Josephine BARBARO, Auteur ; Patrick DWYER, Auteur ; Nancy SADKA, Auteur ; Perrin DATE, Auteur ; Alison E LANE, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2084-2096 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism  early childhood  qualitative  sensory  thematic analysis Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Sensory differences are well documented in autistic individuals. However, early sensory experiences have not been fully explored, particularly from the perspective of autistic people. We sought to understand early sensory experiences in autism from the perspective of autistic adults (some of whom also had autistic children) and caregivers of autistic children (some of whom also had a personal autism diagnosis). Using a qualitative descriptive design, aligned with a constructivist paradigm, focus groups were conducted with 3 autistic adults and 12 caregivers of autistic children. Data were analysed with reflexive thematic analysis. Five themes were generated accounting for early sensory experiences in autism: (1) Acknowledging the uniqueness of sensory preferences, (2) Negative impacts of different sensory experiences, (3) Feeling different and the pursuit of belonging, (4) Controlling sensory experiences to support daily function, and finally (5) Overcoming the challenges of the sensory world. The findings highlight the specific sensory needs of autistic children in early childhood and the adaptability of caregivers. This information can help young autistic people and caregivers advocate the importance of recognising the uniqueness of each autistic child?s sensory preferences when seeking support.Lay Abstract Sensory behaviours in early childhood can impact how autistic children experience and engage in the world. There is a lot of research about sensory differences in autistic children; however, there is very little known about experiences in early childhood. We asked 3 autistic adults and 12 caregivers of autistic children about their/their child?s experiences of sensory behaviours in early childhood. In our sample, autistic adults and caregivers of autistic children shared similar experiences about the challenges they/their children face related to sensory experiences in early childhood and how they overcame these. The findings can influence how researchers and service providers view sensory preferences in early childhood by understanding that everyone?s preferences are unique, and the importance of advocating for what works for each autistic person. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335069 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] 'We?re quite good at thinking outside the box: Early autistic sensory experiences expressed by autistic adults and caregivers of autistic children [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Katy L UNWIN, Auteur ; Kelsey PHILPOTT-ROBINSON, Auteur ; Josephine BARBARO, Auteur ; Patrick DWYER, Auteur ; Nancy SADKA, Auteur ; Perrin DATE, Auteur ; Alison E LANE, Auteur . - p.2084-2096. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2084-2096 Mots-clés : autism  early childhood  qualitative  sensory  thematic analysis Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Sensory differences are well documented in autistic individuals. However, early sensory experiences have not been fully explored, particularly from the perspective of autistic people. We sought to understand early sensory experiences in autism from the perspective of autistic adults (some of whom also had autistic children) and caregivers of autistic children (some of whom also had a personal autism diagnosis). Using a qualitative descriptive design, aligned with a constructivist paradigm, focus groups were conducted with 3 autistic adults and 12 caregivers of autistic children. Data were analysed with reflexive thematic analysis. Five themes were generated accounting for early sensory experiences in autism: (1) Acknowledging the uniqueness of sensory preferences, (2) Negative impacts of different sensory experiences, (3) Feeling different and the pursuit of belonging, (4) Controlling sensory experiences to support daily function, and finally (5) Overcoming the challenges of the sensory world. The findings highlight the specific sensory needs of autistic children in early childhood and the adaptability of caregivers. This information can help young autistic people and caregivers advocate the importance of recognising the uniqueness of each autistic child?s sensory preferences when seeking support.Lay Abstract Sensory behaviours in early childhood can impact how autistic children experience and engage in the world. There is a lot of research about sensory differences in autistic children; however, there is very little known about experiences in early childhood. We asked 3 autistic adults and 12 caregivers of autistic children about their/their child?s experiences of sensory behaviours in early childhood. In our sample, autistic adults and caregivers of autistic children shared similar experiences about the challenges they/their children face related to sensory experiences in early childhood and how they overcame these. The findings can influence how researchers and service providers view sensory preferences in early childhood by understanding that everyone?s preferences are unique, and the importance of advocating for what works for each autistic person. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335069 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Co-designing a novel service delivery pathway to increase access to autism identification and care within a non-profit community organization serving culturally and linguistically diverse families / Shana M ATTAR in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2097-2110 Titre : Co-designing a novel service delivery pathway to increase access to autism identification and care within a non-profit community organization serving culturally and linguistically diverse families Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Shana M ATTAR, Auteur ; Hannah BENAVIDEZ, Auteur ; Carol GICHERU, Auteur ; Colleen ALABI, Auteur ; Risho SAPANO, Auteur ; Wendy L STONE, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2097-2110 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism  co-design  community-based  developmental delay  diversity  early intervention  healthcare access  multilingual Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Culturally and linguistically diverse families experience greater challenges accessing timely, autism-specialized care relative to non-culturally and linguistically diverse families, and ultimately experience less optimal health outcomes. Alternative pathways to access autism care for culturally and linguistically diverse families are needed; however, the features of a novel pathway remain unclear. A co-design process was used with a culturally embedded non-profit community organization to develop a novel service delivery pathway for increasing access to autism services for culturally and linguistically diverse families in the United States. Twenty-three individuals participated in eight, 2-hour co-design sessions. Participants included front-line staff (seven non-specialist providers), management leaders (two program supervisors and two organization directors), and eight end-users (caregivers) from seven understudied cultural and linguistic groups (i.e. Somali Mai Mai, Swahili, Arabic, Dari/Pashto, French, Amharic, and Tigrinya) and four autism specialists. The co-design identified five key design features: respecting diversity, prioritizing caregiver agency, increasing accessibility, minimizing stigma, and maximizing feasibility. These features informed the co-development of a novel pathway to access autism identification and care for culturally and linguistically diverse families that pairs navigation services with the dissemination of brief, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based parenting and coping strategies. This power-sharing, community-academic partnership may serve as a model for improving equity in autism care.Lay Abstract Early, specialized support is important for helping young autistic children learn and develop. However, families from different cultural backgrounds often find it challenging to access this early help. A university lab and a community organization worked together to create a new way for these families to access autism services. We used a co-design approach, which involves gathering feedback from a variety of people involved in autism care, including service providers, community leaders, caregivers, and autism experts. Twenty-three individuals participated in eight co-design sessions that were two?hours each. Participants were from different language groups, including Somali Mai Mai, Swahili, Arabic, Dari/Pashto, French, Amharic, and Tigrinya. These sessions helped us identify five important factors important for improving access to needed services: being mindful about cultural differences between groups, empowering caregivers, providing information and support for accessing services, reducing stigma around autism, and ensuring the service is practical to use. Based on these factors, we developed a new pathway for families to access autism care. This new approach includes providing help in navigating the medical and educational systems and provides short, culturally appropriate advice for parenting and coping. This project shows how working together with communities can create more fair and effective ways to provide autism support. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335702 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Co-designing a novel service delivery pathway to increase access to autism identification and care within a non-profit community organization serving culturally and linguistically diverse families [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Shana M ATTAR, Auteur ; Hannah BENAVIDEZ, Auteur ; Carol GICHERU, Auteur ; Colleen ALABI, Auteur ; Risho SAPANO, Auteur ; Wendy L STONE, Auteur . - p.2097-2110. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2097-2110 Mots-clés : autism  co-design  community-based  developmental delay  diversity  early intervention  healthcare access  multilingual Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Culturally and linguistically diverse families experience greater challenges accessing timely, autism-specialized care relative to non-culturally and linguistically diverse families, and ultimately experience less optimal health outcomes. Alternative pathways to access autism care for culturally and linguistically diverse families are needed; however, the features of a novel pathway remain unclear. A co-design process was used with a culturally embedded non-profit community organization to develop a novel service delivery pathway for increasing access to autism services for culturally and linguistically diverse families in the United States. Twenty-three individuals participated in eight, 2-hour co-design sessions. Participants included front-line staff (seven non-specialist providers), management leaders (two program supervisors and two organization directors), and eight end-users (caregivers) from seven understudied cultural and linguistic groups (i.e. Somali Mai Mai, Swahili, Arabic, Dari/Pashto, French, Amharic, and Tigrinya) and four autism specialists. The co-design identified five key design features: respecting diversity, prioritizing caregiver agency, increasing accessibility, minimizing stigma, and maximizing feasibility. These features informed the co-development of a novel pathway to access autism identification and care for culturally and linguistically diverse families that pairs navigation services with the dissemination of brief, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based parenting and coping strategies. This power-sharing, community-academic partnership may serve as a model for improving equity in autism care.Lay Abstract Early, specialized support is important for helping young autistic children learn and develop. However, families from different cultural backgrounds often find it challenging to access this early help. A university lab and a community organization worked together to create a new way for these families to access autism services. We used a co-design approach, which involves gathering feedback from a variety of people involved in autism care, including service providers, community leaders, caregivers, and autism experts. Twenty-three individuals participated in eight co-design sessions that were two?hours each. Participants were from different language groups, including Somali Mai Mai, Swahili, Arabic, Dari/Pashto, French, Amharic, and Tigrinya. These sessions helped us identify five important factors important for improving access to needed services: being mindful about cultural differences between groups, empowering caregivers, providing information and support for accessing services, reducing stigma around autism, and ensuring the service is practical to use. Based on these factors, we developed a new pathway for families to access autism care. This new approach includes providing help in navigating the medical and educational systems and provides short, culturally appropriate advice for parenting and coping. This project shows how working together with communities can create more fair and effective ways to provide autism support. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335702 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

'Accumulating harm and waiting for crisis': Parents' perspectives of accessing Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for their autistic child experiencing mental health difficulties / Emma ASHWORTH in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2111-2122 Titre : 'Accumulating harm and waiting for crisis': Parents' perspectives of accessing Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for their autistic child experiencing mental health difficulties Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Emma ASHWORTH, Auteur ; Lucy BRAY, Auteur ; Claire HANLON, Auteur ; Harvey STANWAY, Auteur ; Georgia PAVLOPOULOU, Auteur ; David MOORE, Auteur ; Bethany DONAGHY, Auteur ; Elizabeth COEN, Auteur ; Ellen FIRTH, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2111-2122 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism  Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services  children and young people  crisis  healthcare provision  mental health Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autistic children and young people are at increased risk of mental health difficulties, but often face barriers when seeking help from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. This study aimed to (1) explore the experiences of parents/carers seeking help from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for their autistic child?s mental health difficulties, and (2) gain parents' perceptions of the accessibility of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for their child. A mixed-methods survey design was used. In total, 300 parents/carers took part from across the United Kingdom. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data using qualitative content analysis. Findings demonstrated ongoing struggles that parents/carers faced when seeking help from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Those who were referred reported a lack of reasonable adjustments and offers of ineffective or inappropriate therapies. Ultimately, parents felt their child?s mental health difficulties either did not improve or declined to the point of crisis. However, there was a recognition that some professionals were kind and compassionate. There is a need for a more neuro-inclusive and personalised approach in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Further research, funding and training are urgently needed to ensure support is accessible, timely and effective for autistic young people.Lay abstract Autistic children and young people are more likely to experience mental health difficulties than neurotypical peers, but also face more barriers when seeking help from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Findings highlight the need for a more neuroaffirmative approach from the professionals themselves, in the adjustments offered, and in the therapies provided. Barriers to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for autistic children and young people include diagnostic overshadowing (i.e. assuming mental health difficulties are part of autism), high thresholds for assessment and a lack of professional knowledge about autism and care pathways. Healthcare policies should ensure that all Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services professionals receive neuroaffirmative training and that resources/funding are provided for appropriate adjustments and early support. There is also a need for further research and funding to develop and evaluate effective neuroaffirmative therapeutic interventions. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335715 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] 'Accumulating harm and waiting for crisis': Parents' perspectives of accessing Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for their autistic child experiencing mental health difficulties [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Emma ASHWORTH, Auteur ; Lucy BRAY, Auteur ; Claire HANLON, Auteur ; Harvey STANWAY, Auteur ; Georgia PAVLOPOULOU, Auteur ; David MOORE, Auteur ; Bethany DONAGHY, Auteur ; Elizabeth COEN, Auteur ; Ellen FIRTH, Auteur . - p.2111-2122. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2111-2122 Mots-clés : autism  Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services  children and young people  crisis  healthcare provision  mental health Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autistic children and young people are at increased risk of mental health difficulties, but often face barriers when seeking help from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. This study aimed to (1) explore the experiences of parents/carers seeking help from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for their autistic child?s mental health difficulties, and (2) gain parents' perceptions of the accessibility of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for their child. A mixed-methods survey design was used. In total, 300 parents/carers took part from across the United Kingdom. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data using qualitative content analysis. Findings demonstrated ongoing struggles that parents/carers faced when seeking help from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Those who were referred reported a lack of reasonable adjustments and offers of ineffective or inappropriate therapies. Ultimately, parents felt their child?s mental health difficulties either did not improve or declined to the point of crisis. However, there was a recognition that some professionals were kind and compassionate. There is a need for a more neuro-inclusive and personalised approach in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Further research, funding and training are urgently needed to ensure support is accessible, timely and effective for autistic young people.Lay abstract Autistic children and young people are more likely to experience mental health difficulties than neurotypical peers, but also face more barriers when seeking help from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Findings highlight the need for a more neuroaffirmative approach from the professionals themselves, in the adjustments offered, and in the therapies provided. Barriers to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for autistic children and young people include diagnostic overshadowing (i.e. assuming mental health difficulties are part of autism), high thresholds for assessment and a lack of professional knowledge about autism and care pathways. Healthcare policies should ensure that all Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services professionals receive neuroaffirmative training and that resources/funding are provided for appropriate adjustments and early support. There is also a need for further research and funding to develop and evaluate effective neuroaffirmative therapeutic interventions. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335715 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Endogenous and exogenous oxytocin modulate interpersonal motor resonance in autism: A context-dependent and person-specific approach / Jellina PRINSEN in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2123-2136 Titre : Endogenous and exogenous oxytocin modulate interpersonal motor resonance in autism: A context-dependent and person-specific approach Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Jellina PRINSEN, Auteur ; Kaat ALAERTS, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2123-2136 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : action observation  autism spectrum disorder  mirror system  motor simulation  oxytocin  transcranial magnetic stimulation Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Understanding and interpreting non-verbal actions are critical components of social cognition, which are often challenging for autistic individuals. Oxytocin, a neuropeptide known to modulate social behavior and enhance the salience of social stimuli, is being explored as a therapeutic option for improving social mirroring. However, its effects are mediated by context- and person-dependent factors. This study examines the impact of a single intranasal dose of oxytocin (24 IU) on interpersonal motor resonance in young adult men with and without autism. Neurophysiological assessments of corticomotor excitability were performed using transcranial magnetic stimulation while participants observed real-time hand movements displayed by an experimenter demonstrating varying social intent (i.e. showing direct vs averted gaze). While no overall effect of oxytocin on interpersonal motor resonance was observed across groups, person-specific factors significantly influenced outcomes. In the autism group, individuals with higher endogenous oxytocin levels exhibited greater motor resonance during action observation. Autistic individuals with heightened social difficulties or avoidant attachment styles showed enhanced motor resonance following oxytocin administration. These findings highlight the nuanced role of both endogenous and exogenous oxytocin in shaping neurophysiological motor resonance and emphasize the importance of individual variability in assessing oxytocin?s therapeutic potential for addressing social challenges in autism.Lay abstract This study explores how oxytocin, a hormone that influences social behaviors, affects the ability to interpret and respond to non-verbal cues, particularly in autistic adults. Understanding others' actions and intentions, often guided by observing body language and eye contact, is a critical part of social interaction. Autistic individuals frequently face challenges in these areas. Using a safe, non-invasive brain stimulation technique, the study measured participants' brain responses as they observed real-time hand movements paired with the interaction partner?s direct eye contact or averted gaze. Participants included young autistic and non-autistic adult men who received a placebo and a single dose of oxytocin via nasal spray. Results showed no overall differences between the two groups in their brain responses to these movements. However, in the autism group, several factors significantly influenced the effects of oxytocin. Participants with higher natural oxytocin levels or those who reported greater social challenges showed stronger responses after oxytocin administration, particularly when observing hand movements combined with direct gaze. These findings suggest that oxytocin may enhance social understanding in autistic individuals, especially for those experiencing greater difficulties. This highlights the potential of personalized approaches when considering oxytocin as a therapeutic option to improve social interactions. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335730 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Endogenous and exogenous oxytocin modulate interpersonal motor resonance in autism: A context-dependent and person-specific approach [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Jellina PRINSEN, Auteur ; Kaat ALAERTS, Auteur . - p.2123-2136. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2123-2136 Mots-clés : action observation  autism spectrum disorder  mirror system  motor simulation  oxytocin  transcranial magnetic stimulation Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Understanding and interpreting non-verbal actions are critical components of social cognition, which are often challenging for autistic individuals. Oxytocin, a neuropeptide known to modulate social behavior and enhance the salience of social stimuli, is being explored as a therapeutic option for improving social mirroring. However, its effects are mediated by context- and person-dependent factors. This study examines the impact of a single intranasal dose of oxytocin (24 IU) on interpersonal motor resonance in young adult men with and without autism. Neurophysiological assessments of corticomotor excitability were performed using transcranial magnetic stimulation while participants observed real-time hand movements displayed by an experimenter demonstrating varying social intent (i.e. showing direct vs averted gaze). While no overall effect of oxytocin on interpersonal motor resonance was observed across groups, person-specific factors significantly influenced outcomes. In the autism group, individuals with higher endogenous oxytocin levels exhibited greater motor resonance during action observation. Autistic individuals with heightened social difficulties or avoidant attachment styles showed enhanced motor resonance following oxytocin administration. These findings highlight the nuanced role of both endogenous and exogenous oxytocin in shaping neurophysiological motor resonance and emphasize the importance of individual variability in assessing oxytocin?s therapeutic potential for addressing social challenges in autism.Lay abstract This study explores how oxytocin, a hormone that influences social behaviors, affects the ability to interpret and respond to non-verbal cues, particularly in autistic adults. Understanding others' actions and intentions, often guided by observing body language and eye contact, is a critical part of social interaction. Autistic individuals frequently face challenges in these areas. Using a safe, non-invasive brain stimulation technique, the study measured participants' brain responses as they observed real-time hand movements paired with the interaction partner?s direct eye contact or averted gaze. Participants included young autistic and non-autistic adult men who received a placebo and a single dose of oxytocin via nasal spray. Results showed no overall differences between the two groups in their brain responses to these movements. However, in the autism group, several factors significantly influenced the effects of oxytocin. Participants with higher natural oxytocin levels or those who reported greater social challenges showed stronger responses after oxytocin administration, particularly when observing hand movements combined with direct gaze. These findings suggest that oxytocin may enhance social understanding in autistic individuals, especially for those experiencing greater difficulties. This highlights the potential of personalized approaches when considering oxytocin as a therapeutic option to improve social interactions. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335730 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Self-reported masking in sexual minority and heterosexual autistic adults / Goldie A MCQUAID in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2137-2150 Titre : Self-reported masking in sexual minority and heterosexual autistic adults Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Goldie A MCQUAID, Auteur ; Nancy Raitano LEE, Auteur ; Gregory L WALLACE, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2137-2150 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism  masking  minority stress  sexual minority Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Masking can include suppressing or concealing certain behaviors to appear "non-autistic" and is one response to the excess social stressors of being a neurominority in a neurotypical-majority society. It is important to understand how persons who are multiply marginalized (e.g. an autistic person assigned female sex at birth who is bisexual), who experience multiple layers of excess social stressors, may face additional pressures to conceal their authentic selves. Autistic persons may be more likely than neurotypical persons to identify with a sexual minority orientation, such as asexual, bisexual, gay or pansexual. To advance our understanding of how marginalized identities may be associated with masking, we examined self-reported masking using the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire in a sample of autistic adults (N = 462). After matching participants for assigned sex at birth and age, and after controlling for these effects in modeling, we found that sexual minority autistic adults reported significantly higher levels of masking relative to heterosexual autistic adults. We situate these findings within literatures on masking, minority stress, and stigma.Lay Abstract Masking can include hiding certain behaviors to appear "non-autistic." Masking is one response to the stress of being autistic in a non-autistic world. Being autistic is only one part of someone?s identity, though. Other parts of a person?s identity include things like a person?s sexual orientation. Autistic people are more likely than non-autistic people to have a sexual orientation other than heterosexual, like asexual, bisexual, gay, or pansexual. People who are both autistic and a sexual minority may experience social stress because of different pressures from society. These different pressures may mean sexual minority autistic adults feel pressured to social camouflage more than heterosexual autistic adults. Thus, we compared masking in sexual minority autistic and heterosexual autistic adults. In the statistical models, we controlled for two other factors that may impact masking: sex assigned at birth and age. We found that sexual minority autistic adults reported significantly higher levels of masking relative to heterosexual autistic adults. We discuss how these findings fit within previous research on masking and minority stress. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335738 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Self-reported masking in sexual minority and heterosexual autistic adults [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Goldie A MCQUAID, Auteur ; Nancy Raitano LEE, Auteur ; Gregory L WALLACE, Auteur . - p.2137-2150. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2137-2150 Mots-clés : autism  masking  minority stress  sexual minority Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Masking can include suppressing or concealing certain behaviors to appear "non-autistic" and is one response to the excess social stressors of being a neurominority in a neurotypical-majority society. It is important to understand how persons who are multiply marginalized (e.g. an autistic person assigned female sex at birth who is bisexual), who experience multiple layers of excess social stressors, may face additional pressures to conceal their authentic selves. Autistic persons may be more likely than neurotypical persons to identify with a sexual minority orientation, such as asexual, bisexual, gay or pansexual. To advance our understanding of how marginalized identities may be associated with masking, we examined self-reported masking using the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire in a sample of autistic adults (N = 462). After matching participants for assigned sex at birth and age, and after controlling for these effects in modeling, we found that sexual minority autistic adults reported significantly higher levels of masking relative to heterosexual autistic adults. We situate these findings within literatures on masking, minority stress, and stigma.Lay Abstract Masking can include hiding certain behaviors to appear "non-autistic." Masking is one response to the stress of being autistic in a non-autistic world. Being autistic is only one part of someone?s identity, though. Other parts of a person?s identity include things like a person?s sexual orientation. Autistic people are more likely than non-autistic people to have a sexual orientation other than heterosexual, like asexual, bisexual, gay, or pansexual. People who are both autistic and a sexual minority may experience social stress because of different pressures from society. These different pressures may mean sexual minority autistic adults feel pressured to social camouflage more than heterosexual autistic adults. Thus, we compared masking in sexual minority autistic and heterosexual autistic adults. In the statistical models, we controlled for two other factors that may impact masking: sex assigned at birth and age. We found that sexual minority autistic adults reported significantly higher levels of masking relative to heterosexual autistic adults. We discuss how these findings fit within previous research on masking and minority stress. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251335738 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Autistic-led insights on airport accessibility: A retrospective analysis of environmental assessments / Chris EDWARDS in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2151-2162 Titre : Autistic-led insights on airport accessibility: A retrospective analysis of environmental assessments Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Chris EDWARDS, Auteur ; Abigail MA LOVE, Auteur ; Ru YING CAI, Auteur ; Tom TUTTON, Auteur ; Emma BEARDSLEY, Auteur ; Vicki GIBBS, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2151-2162 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : accessibility  air travel  airport  autism-friendly  tourism Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autistic people often encounter significant barriers when navigating airports, largely due to overwhelming sensory environments, stringent security procedures, and crowded spaces. This study aimed to enhance understanding of airport accessibility by retrospectively analyzing reports from Autistic-led environmental assessments conducted at six Australian airports between 2017 and 2024. Drawing on an evidence-informed autism-friendly framework, the assessments focused on eight key elements, including sensory adaptations, communication supports, and preparation and predictability. Through reflexive thematic analysis, two key themes were generated: (1) navigating the sensory landscape and (2) help passengers navigate with confidence. Our findings underscore the importance of sensory adjustments-such as natural lighting and quiet spaces-alongside clearer visual aids and communication supports. Importantly, this study represents the first systematic application of autism-friendly principles to airport environments, offering practical, evidence-based recommendations for more inclusive design. By foregrounding the perspectives of Autistic individuals, this research highlights the need for participatory design approaches to create public spaces that are genuinely accessible and supportive for Autistic travelersLay abstract Airports can be challenging for Autistic people because of overwhelming sensory experiences like bright lights and loud noises, security processes, and crowded spaces. This study analyzed reports from six Australian airports, produced between 2017 and 2024, to understand how airports can be made better for Autistic travelers. These reports were based on assessments led by Autistic people and used a specific framework to evaluate areas like sensory experiences and communication needs. The study found two main ways to improve accessibility: (1) reducing sensory challenges, like loud noises or bright, overwhelming areas, and (2) improving communication and wayfinding to make navigation clearer and easier. Some of the recommendations included providing quiet spaces for travelers, using softer and more natural lighting, and improving signs to make it easier for people to navigate airports. This is the first study to apply autism-friendly principles to airports and shows the importance of involving Autistic people in the design of more inclusive public spaces. The findings offer practical recommendations for airports around the world to better support Autistic travelers. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251337200 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Autistic-led insights on airport accessibility: A retrospective analysis of environmental assessments [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Chris EDWARDS, Auteur ; Abigail MA LOVE, Auteur ; Ru YING CAI, Auteur ; Tom TUTTON, Auteur ; Emma BEARDSLEY, Auteur ; Vicki GIBBS, Auteur . - p.2151-2162. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2151-2162 Mots-clés : accessibility  air travel  airport  autism-friendly  tourism Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autistic people often encounter significant barriers when navigating airports, largely due to overwhelming sensory environments, stringent security procedures, and crowded spaces. This study aimed to enhance understanding of airport accessibility by retrospectively analyzing reports from Autistic-led environmental assessments conducted at six Australian airports between 2017 and 2024. Drawing on an evidence-informed autism-friendly framework, the assessments focused on eight key elements, including sensory adaptations, communication supports, and preparation and predictability. Through reflexive thematic analysis, two key themes were generated: (1) navigating the sensory landscape and (2) help passengers navigate with confidence. Our findings underscore the importance of sensory adjustments-such as natural lighting and quiet spaces-alongside clearer visual aids and communication supports. Importantly, this study represents the first systematic application of autism-friendly principles to airport environments, offering practical, evidence-based recommendations for more inclusive design. By foregrounding the perspectives of Autistic individuals, this research highlights the need for participatory design approaches to create public spaces that are genuinely accessible and supportive for Autistic travelersLay abstract Airports can be challenging for Autistic people because of overwhelming sensory experiences like bright lights and loud noises, security processes, and crowded spaces. This study analyzed reports from six Australian airports, produced between 2017 and 2024, to understand how airports can be made better for Autistic travelers. These reports were based on assessments led by Autistic people and used a specific framework to evaluate areas like sensory experiences and communication needs. The study found two main ways to improve accessibility: (1) reducing sensory challenges, like loud noises or bright, overwhelming areas, and (2) improving communication and wayfinding to make navigation clearer and easier. Some of the recommendations included providing quiet spaces for travelers, using softer and more natural lighting, and improving signs to make it easier for people to navigate airports. This is the first study to apply autism-friendly principles to airports and shows the importance of involving Autistic people in the design of more inclusive public spaces. The findings offer practical recommendations for airports around the world to better support Autistic travelers. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251337200 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

The impact of state policy on early autism diagnosis: A qualitative investigation / Olivia J LINDLY in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2163-2180 Titre : The impact of state policy on early autism diagnosis: A qualitative investigation Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Olivia J LINDLY, Auteur ; Danielle ABATE, Auteur ; Plyce L FUCHU, Auteur ; Jocelyn L KUHN, Auteur ; Purnima S MUDNAL BHARATH, Auteur ; Sarah M ASANTEWAA, Auteur ; Emily FEINBERG, Auteur ; Sarabeth BRODER-FINGERT, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2163-2180 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism  disparities  early diagnosis  insurance  policy  services  United States Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autism diagnosis before age three to expedite access to critical services is a public health priority in the United States. Still, the average age of autism diagnosis is 49?months with substantial variability across states. By examining policy-defined as laws, regulations, procedures, administrative actions, incentives, or voluntary practices of governments or other institutions-modifiable structural drivers of early (or late) autism diagnosis may be identified. We, therefore, sought to identify policies impacting early autism diagnosis in five states that are part of a larger initiative to improve autism diagnosis (Arizona, California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania) and those that exist nationally. We conducted semi-structured interviews from 2021 to 2023 with a purposive sample of 57 autism policy or research experts. The following four themes were identified through conventional content analysis: (1) developmental monitoring is critical; however, developmental screening policies vary within and across states; (2) myriad policy and contextual factors shape early diagnosis pathways within states; (3) early intervention by the state and community-based early childhood programs influence early autism diagnosis; and (4) persistent disparities in early autism diagnosis pathways are affected by policies. Study findings highlight the importance of advancing certain state and federal policies to increase early autism diagnosis.Lay abstract In the United States, when children on the spectrum are diagnosed before age three, it can help them get the services they need to thrive. There are many differences between states as far as how many children are diagnosed with autism and the average age when they are diagnosed. Some work suggests these differences may be due to state polices, which include the laws and processes governments and organizations follow. Little research has tried to understand the similarities and differences between state policies related to autism diagnosis. Because of this, our study looked at how state policies impact the timing of autism diagnosis in the United States. We interviewed 57 experts in five states and nationally from 2021 to 2023. Four key themes were identified including (1) developmental monitoring often leads to screening, but there is much variation in and across states; (2) family, community, and healthcare factors shape pathways to autism diagnosis in states; (3) early intervention and education programs play a role in autism diagnosis; and (4) systematic differences in access to diagnosis services persist for certain groups of children and families such as those with limited English-speaking abilities. This study?s findings point to certain state and federal policy changes or enhancements to reduce the age of autism diagnosis and ameliorate persistent disparities in autism diagnosis. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251336813 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] The impact of state policy on early autism diagnosis: A qualitative investigation [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Olivia J LINDLY, Auteur ; Danielle ABATE, Auteur ; Plyce L FUCHU, Auteur ; Jocelyn L KUHN, Auteur ; Purnima S MUDNAL BHARATH, Auteur ; Sarah M ASANTEWAA, Auteur ; Emily FEINBERG, Auteur ; Sarabeth BRODER-FINGERT, Auteur . - p.2163-2180. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2163-2180 Mots-clés : autism  disparities  early diagnosis  insurance  policy  services  United States Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autism diagnosis before age three to expedite access to critical services is a public health priority in the United States. Still, the average age of autism diagnosis is 49?months with substantial variability across states. By examining policy-defined as laws, regulations, procedures, administrative actions, incentives, or voluntary practices of governments or other institutions-modifiable structural drivers of early (or late) autism diagnosis may be identified. We, therefore, sought to identify policies impacting early autism diagnosis in five states that are part of a larger initiative to improve autism diagnosis (Arizona, California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania) and those that exist nationally. We conducted semi-structured interviews from 2021 to 2023 with a purposive sample of 57 autism policy or research experts. The following four themes were identified through conventional content analysis: (1) developmental monitoring is critical; however, developmental screening policies vary within and across states; (2) myriad policy and contextual factors shape early diagnosis pathways within states; (3) early intervention by the state and community-based early childhood programs influence early autism diagnosis; and (4) persistent disparities in early autism diagnosis pathways are affected by policies. Study findings highlight the importance of advancing certain state and federal policies to increase early autism diagnosis.Lay abstract In the United States, when children on the spectrum are diagnosed before age three, it can help them get the services they need to thrive. There are many differences between states as far as how many children are diagnosed with autism and the average age when they are diagnosed. Some work suggests these differences may be due to state polices, which include the laws and processes governments and organizations follow. Little research has tried to understand the similarities and differences between state policies related to autism diagnosis. Because of this, our study looked at how state policies impact the timing of autism diagnosis in the United States. We interviewed 57 experts in five states and nationally from 2021 to 2023. Four key themes were identified including (1) developmental monitoring often leads to screening, but there is much variation in and across states; (2) family, community, and healthcare factors shape pathways to autism diagnosis in states; (3) early intervention and education programs play a role in autism diagnosis; and (4) systematic differences in access to diagnosis services persist for certain groups of children and families such as those with limited English-speaking abilities. This study?s findings point to certain state and federal policy changes or enhancements to reduce the age of autism diagnosis and ameliorate persistent disparities in autism diagnosis. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251336813 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

'Am I gonna regret this?': The experiences of diagnostic disclosure in autistic adults / Sheena K AU-YEUNG in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2181-2192 Titre : 'Am I gonna regret this?': The experiences of diagnostic disclosure in autistic adults Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Sheena K AU-YEUNG, Auteur ; Megan FREETH, Auteur ; Andrew R THOMPSON, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2181-2192 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : adults  autism  disclosure  IPA  qualitative Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : An increasing number of people receive autism diagnoses in adulthood, and there are few studies investigating autistic adults' experiences of disclosing their diagnosis. This study sought to understand autistic adults' experiences of diagnostic disclosure using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Twelve autistic adults, who received their diagnosis in adulthood, participated in one-to-one semi-structured interviews exploring their experiences of diagnostic disclosure. Quality control and reflexivity procedures were used to ensure rigour. Four group experiential themes and nine subthemes emerged: (1) 'Functions of Disclosure' (subthemes: i. Accessing Support; ii. Becoming Myself; iii. Activism and its Burden); (2) 'Approaching the Conversation' (Subthemes: i. Managing Disclosure and Reactions; ii. Disclosure Started Pre-Diagnosis; iii. Impact on Others); (3) 'Negative Effects of Preconceptions' (Subthemes: i. Disbelief and Imposter Syndrome; ii. Not Having My Needs Met; iii. Caution and Avoidance), and (4) 'Acceptance, Openness and Finding Community'. Disclosure served multiple functions for the autistic participants. There was variability in the support that autistic participants received in preparation for disclosing the diagnosis. More consistent post-diagnostic support is required to engage newly diagnosed autistic adults in considering the practicalities and potential consequences of disclosure, its benefits and challenges.Lay Summary An increasing number of people are receiving diagnoses of autism in adulthood. However, there are few studies investigating autistic adults' experiences of 'disclosure', that is, telling others about their autism diagnosis. The aim of this study is to understand autistic adults' experiences of telling other people that they are autistic after receiving a diagnosis during adulthood. Twelve autistic adults were interviewed about their experiences of disclosure. The interviews showed that autistic people disclose to access support, be themselves and to help others. To disclose, autistic people had to make decisions about what information to share and how to handle people?s reactions. Some people started telling others about their potential diagnosis before being formally diagnosed. Disclosure has an impact on people receiving the news of disclosure. Many autistic people experienced not being believed, resulting in unmet needs. This led them to be more careful about future disclosure. However, disclosure also led to some positive experiences, where autistic people felt listened to and accepted by those they disclosed to. This led to receiving support and feeling part of a community. It is recommended that clinicians and autism service providers include discussions about disclosure as part of routine post-diagnostic support. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251337504 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] 'Am I gonna regret this?': The experiences of diagnostic disclosure in autistic adults [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Sheena K AU-YEUNG, Auteur ; Megan FREETH, Auteur ; Andrew R THOMPSON, Auteur . - p.2181-2192. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2181-2192 Mots-clés : adults  autism  disclosure  IPA  qualitative Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : An increasing number of people receive autism diagnoses in adulthood, and there are few studies investigating autistic adults' experiences of disclosing their diagnosis. This study sought to understand autistic adults' experiences of diagnostic disclosure using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Twelve autistic adults, who received their diagnosis in adulthood, participated in one-to-one semi-structured interviews exploring their experiences of diagnostic disclosure. Quality control and reflexivity procedures were used to ensure rigour. Four group experiential themes and nine subthemes emerged: (1) 'Functions of Disclosure' (subthemes: i. Accessing Support; ii. Becoming Myself; iii. Activism and its Burden); (2) 'Approaching the Conversation' (Subthemes: i. Managing Disclosure and Reactions; ii. Disclosure Started Pre-Diagnosis; iii. Impact on Others); (3) 'Negative Effects of Preconceptions' (Subthemes: i. Disbelief and Imposter Syndrome; ii. Not Having My Needs Met; iii. Caution and Avoidance), and (4) 'Acceptance, Openness and Finding Community'. Disclosure served multiple functions for the autistic participants. There was variability in the support that autistic participants received in preparation for disclosing the diagnosis. More consistent post-diagnostic support is required to engage newly diagnosed autistic adults in considering the practicalities and potential consequences of disclosure, its benefits and challenges.Lay Summary An increasing number of people are receiving diagnoses of autism in adulthood. However, there are few studies investigating autistic adults' experiences of 'disclosure', that is, telling others about their autism diagnosis. The aim of this study is to understand autistic adults' experiences of telling other people that they are autistic after receiving a diagnosis during adulthood. Twelve autistic adults were interviewed about their experiences of disclosure. The interviews showed that autistic people disclose to access support, be themselves and to help others. To disclose, autistic people had to make decisions about what information to share and how to handle people?s reactions. Some people started telling others about their potential diagnosis before being formally diagnosed. Disclosure has an impact on people receiving the news of disclosure. Many autistic people experienced not being believed, resulting in unmet needs. This led them to be more careful about future disclosure. However, disclosure also led to some positive experiences, where autistic people felt listened to and accepted by those they disclosed to. This led to receiving support and feeling part of a community. It is recommended that clinicians and autism service providers include discussions about disclosure as part of routine post-diagnostic support. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251337504 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564

Satisfaction with friendship support protects autistic youth from the negative effects of peer victimization / Natalie LIBSTER in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2193-2198 Titre : Satisfaction with friendship support protects autistic youth from the negative effects of peer victimization Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Natalie LIBSTER, Auteur ; Ryan ADAMS, Auteur ; Somer BISHOP, Auteur ; Shuting ZHENG, Auteur ; Julie Lounds TAYLOR, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.2193-2198 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism spectrum disorders  depression  friendships  peer victimization Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autistic youth experience higher rates of peer victimization than their non-autistic peers. While there is some evidence that friendships may protect against the negative mental health effects of peer victimization in the general population, these protective effects have not been examined in autistic youth. The current study explored whether satisfaction with friendship support is associated with depressive symptoms among autistic youth, and whether satisfaction with friendship support buffers against the negative effects of peer victimization on mental health. Autistic youth (N = 224) between the ages of 15 and 25?years (M = 18.68?years) completed questionnaires measuring frequency of peer victimization, satisfaction with friendship support, and depressive symptoms. Satisfaction with friendship support was not associated with depressive symptoms; however, the effect of peer victimization on depressive symptoms was attenuated for youth who were more satisfied with their friendship support compared to youth who were less satisfied with their friendship support. The results of the current study therefore highlight the potential for promoting mental health of autistic youth through reducing peer victimization and increasing satisfaction with peer relationships.Lay Abstract Autistic youth are more likely to be bullied than youth who are not on the autism spectrum. Youth in the general population who are bullied experience poor mental health, but those who are satisfied with their friendships may be protected from these negative outcomes. No studies have looked at how friendships affect the mental health of autistic youth who are bullied by their peers. Autistic youth completed questionnaires that asked them to report how frequently they were bullied, whether they were satisfied with the support they received from friends, and depressive symptoms they experienced. Depressive symptoms did not differ between youth who were more satisfied and youth who were less satisfied with their friendship support. However, among youth who were frequently bullied, depressive symptoms were lower for those who were more satisfied with their friendship support compared to those who were less satisfied with their friendship support. This study shows that interventions are needed to support the mental health of autistic youth by decreasing bullying by peers and increasing positive peer relationships. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251322923 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564 [article] Satisfaction with friendship support protects autistic youth from the negative effects of peer victimization [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Natalie LIBSTER, Auteur ; Ryan ADAMS, Auteur ; Somer BISHOP, Auteur ; Shuting ZHENG, Auteur ; Julie Lounds TAYLOR, Auteur . - p.2193-2198. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2193-2198 Mots-clés : autism spectrum disorders  depression  friendships  peer victimization Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autistic youth experience higher rates of peer victimization than their non-autistic peers. While there is some evidence that friendships may protect against the negative mental health effects of peer victimization in the general population, these protective effects have not been examined in autistic youth. The current study explored whether satisfaction with friendship support is associated with depressive symptoms among autistic youth, and whether satisfaction with friendship support buffers against the negative effects of peer victimization on mental health. Autistic youth (N = 224) between the ages of 15 and 25?years (M = 18.68?years) completed questionnaires measuring frequency of peer victimization, satisfaction with friendship support, and depressive symptoms. Satisfaction with friendship support was not associated with depressive symptoms; however, the effect of peer victimization on depressive symptoms was attenuated for youth who were more satisfied with their friendship support compared to youth who were less satisfied with their friendship support. The results of the current study therefore highlight the potential for promoting mental health of autistic youth through reducing peer victimization and increasing satisfaction with peer relationships.Lay Abstract Autistic youth are more likely to be bullied than youth who are not on the autism spectrum. Youth in the general population who are bullied experience poor mental health, but those who are satisfied with their friendships may be protected from these negative outcomes. No studies have looked at how friendships affect the mental health of autistic youth who are bullied by their peers. Autistic youth completed questionnaires that asked them to report how frequently they were bullied, whether they were satisfied with the support they received from friends, and depressive symptoms they experienced. Depressive symptoms did not differ between youth who were more satisfied and youth who were less satisfied with their friendship support. However, among youth who were frequently bullied, depressive symptoms were lower for those who were more satisfied with their friendship support compared to those who were less satisfied with their friendship support. This study shows that interventions are needed to support the mental health of autistic youth by decreasing bullying by peers and increasing positive peer relationships. En ligne : https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613251322923 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=564