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Auteur Chris EDWARDS |
Documents disponibles écrits par cet auteur (9)



Anti-ableist language is fully compatible with high-quality autism research: Response to Singer et al. (2023) / Heini M. NATRI in Autism Research, 16-4 (April 2023)
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Autistic-led insights on airport accessibility: A retrospective analysis of environmental assessments / Chris EDWARDS in Autism, 29-8 (August 2025)
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[article]
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
in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2151-2162[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 Community Priorities for Outcomes Targeted During Professional Supports for Autistic Children and their Families / Chris EDWARDS ; Ruth MONK ; Lee PATRICK ; Sarah PILLAR ; Hannah WADDINGTON in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 55-5 (May 2025)
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[article]
Titre : Community Priorities for Outcomes Targeted During Professional Supports for Autistic Children and their Families Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Chris EDWARDS, Auteur ; Ruth MONK, Auteur ; Lee PATRICK, Auteur ; Sarah PILLAR, Auteur ; Hannah WADDINGTON, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1890-1901 Langues : Anglais (eng) Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Professional supports play an important role in aiding autistic children?s learning, participation, and overall wellbeing. Yet, limited research exists on stakeholders' perspectives and preferences regarding targeted outcomes for children undergoing support facilitated by professionals. This study investigated stakeholder views on the priority and appropriateness of outcomes intentionally targeted during the provision of supports to autistic children. En ligne : https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-024-06333-2 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=554
in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders > 55-5 (May 2025) . - p.1890-1901[article] Community Priorities for Outcomes Targeted During Professional Supports for Autistic Children and their Families [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Chris EDWARDS, Auteur ; Ruth MONK, Auteur ; Lee PATRICK, Auteur ; Sarah PILLAR, Auteur ; Hannah WADDINGTON, Auteur . - p.1890-1901.
Langues : Anglais (eng)
in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders > 55-5 (May 2025) . - p.1890-1901
Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Professional supports play an important role in aiding autistic children?s learning, participation, and overall wellbeing. Yet, limited research exists on stakeholders' perspectives and preferences regarding targeted outcomes for children undergoing support facilitated by professionals. This study investigated stakeholder views on the priority and appropriateness of outcomes intentionally targeted during the provision of supports to autistic children. En ligne : https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-024-06333-2 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=554 "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)
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[article]
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
in Autism > 29-8 (August 2025) . - p.2072-2083[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 'It depends entirely on the nature of those supports': Community perceptions of the appropriateness of early support services for autistic children / Rhylee SULEK in Autism, 29-5 (May 2025)
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[article]
Titre : 'It depends entirely on the nature of those supports': Community perceptions of the appropriateness of early support services for autistic children Type de document : Texte imprimé et/ou numérique Auteurs : Rhylee SULEK, Auteur ; Chris EDWARDS, Auteur ; Ruth MONK, Auteur ; Lee PATRICK, Auteur ; Sarah PILLAR, Auteur ; Andrew JO WHITEHOUSE, Auteur ; Hannah WADDINGTON, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1275-1284 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : autism co-production early support services neurodiversity reflexive thematic analysis Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autistic advocates emphasise the need for neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based approaches to support services; however, little is known about broader community perspectives regarding the appropriateness of offering early support services to autistic children. This co-designed mixed-methods study employed surveys to gather insights from 253 participants in Australia and New Zealand, including autistic adults, parents, and professionals. Participants shared views on the appropriateness of early support services for autistic children. About half of participants indicated that it was appropriate to provide early support services, while the other half indicated that it depended on the nature of those support services. Reflexive thematic analysis resulted in three overarching themes which explain these views. 'They are children first, after all' emphasises the importance of preserving childhood experiences and involving children in decision-making. 'We shouldn?t be aiming to fix the child' underscores the need for support services to align with neurodiversity-affirming approaches. Finally, 'Supports are beneficial' highlights the perceived positive impact that early, individualised support services can provide for autistic children. These findings predominantly signal a shift away from medicalised models towards a neurodiversity-affirming approach across participant groups.Lay abstract We do not know much about what support services people think are okay for young autistic children. This study was a survey of 253 people. We asked autistic adults, parents, and professionals from Australia and New Zealand whether they thought it was okay to provide support services to autistic children. About half the people who shared their thoughts said it was okay to provide support services to autistic children and the other half said it depended on what the support service was like. They had three main ideas about whether support services were okay or not. The first one is that we should remember that these autistic children are children first, so we need to keep their childhood experiences in mind and let them have a say in decisions. The second is that we should not try to 'fix' the child, but instead, use supports that respect and understand the unique ways the child thinks. The final idea is that early, personalised help is good for autistic children and can make a positive difference in their lives. This study suggests that we should focus on what each child needs, think about how children can join in, and provide help in ways that respect autistic children. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613241302372 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=555
in Autism > 29-5 (May 2025) . - p.1275-1284[article] 'It depends entirely on the nature of those supports': Community perceptions of the appropriateness of early support services for autistic children [Texte imprimé et/ou numérique] / Rhylee SULEK, Auteur ; Chris EDWARDS, Auteur ; Ruth MONK, Auteur ; Lee PATRICK, Auteur ; Sarah PILLAR, Auteur ; Andrew JO WHITEHOUSE, Auteur ; Hannah WADDINGTON, Auteur . - p.1275-1284.
Langues : Anglais (eng)
in Autism > 29-5 (May 2025) . - p.1275-1284
Mots-clés : autism co-production early support services neurodiversity reflexive thematic analysis Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autistic advocates emphasise the need for neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based approaches to support services; however, little is known about broader community perspectives regarding the appropriateness of offering early support services to autistic children. This co-designed mixed-methods study employed surveys to gather insights from 253 participants in Australia and New Zealand, including autistic adults, parents, and professionals. Participants shared views on the appropriateness of early support services for autistic children. About half of participants indicated that it was appropriate to provide early support services, while the other half indicated that it depended on the nature of those support services. Reflexive thematic analysis resulted in three overarching themes which explain these views. 'They are children first, after all' emphasises the importance of preserving childhood experiences and involving children in decision-making. 'We shouldn?t be aiming to fix the child' underscores the need for support services to align with neurodiversity-affirming approaches. Finally, 'Supports are beneficial' highlights the perceived positive impact that early, individualised support services can provide for autistic children. These findings predominantly signal a shift away from medicalised models towards a neurodiversity-affirming approach across participant groups.Lay abstract We do not know much about what support services people think are okay for young autistic children. This study was a survey of 253 people. We asked autistic adults, parents, and professionals from Australia and New Zealand whether they thought it was okay to provide support services to autistic children. About half the people who shared their thoughts said it was okay to provide support services to autistic children and the other half said it depended on what the support service was like. They had three main ideas about whether support services were okay or not. The first one is that we should remember that these autistic children are children first, so we need to keep their childhood experiences in mind and let them have a say in decisions. The second is that we should not try to 'fix' the child, but instead, use supports that respect and understand the unique ways the child thinks. The final idea is that early, personalised help is good for autistic children and can make a positive difference in their lives. This study suggests that we should focus on what each child needs, think about how children can join in, and provide help in ways that respect autistic children. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613241302372 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=555 'Just knowing it?s there gives me comfort': Exploring the benefits and challenges of autism alert cards / Chris EDWARDS in Autism, 29-3 (March 2025)
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Permalink'Most people have no idea what autism is': Unpacking autism disclosure using social media analysis / Chris EDWARDS in Autism, 28-5 (May 2024)
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PermalinkA qualitative exploration of an autism-specific self-compassion program: The ASPAA / Chris EDWARDS in Autism, 28-6 (June 2024)
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PermalinkSelf-compassion improves emotion regulation and mental health outcomes: A pilot study of an online self-compassion program for autistic adults / Ru Ying CAI in Autism, 28-10 (October 2024)
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