Abstract
Loneliness is defined as a negative feeling characterised by the absence of quality and meaningful social relationships. For autistic young people, loneliness has been reported to be higher when compared to clinical (people with ADHD) and non-clinical controls. Although research offers a wealth of interventions that support social skills development for autistic people, some findings suggest that trying to conform to neurotypical social demands can lead to increased loneliness for this population. In addition, loneliness and friendship have been found to be understood and experienced differently for autistic individuals. Therefore, the main aim of this project is to search for autistic understandings of loneliness, through qualitative perspectives, and to produce a valid conceptualisation of loneliness from an autistic point of view, parting with neurotypical frameworks which have been predominant in the conceptualisation and investigation of loneliness. In addition, the project also addresses how ‘not being lonely’ feels, by exploring autistic-led strategies that promote feelings of connection and well-being. The project includes a) a thorough investigation of literature, summarising available assessment tools of loneliness and belonging, with critique of their design and suitability for autistic clients; b) a critical reflection of traditional ways in which loneliness has been conceptualised and investigated; and c) a creative and flexible exploration of how autistic young people experience loneliness, together with a list of personal strategies that contribute to feelings of connection and wellbeing. With a strong participatory ethos, the project contributes personal voice to literature in line with the neurodiversity paradigm.
Presenters
Luciana Lisboa WhitePhD Candidate / Academic Associate, School of Education, Language and Psychology, York St John Univeristy, United Kingdom
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Autism, Loneliness, Neurodiversity, Connection, Autistic young people
