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Dundas, Suzanna (2024) “I can’t imagine being able to cope on my own...I’ll be a disaster”: an exploration of autistic adolescents’ views of adulthood and the adult future self. DAppEdPsy thesis, University of Nottingham.

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Abstract

The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a critical developmental phase. This is often a testing period for many adolescents but for individuals who are autistic, it may be even more challenging. This research aimed to explore how autistic adolescents perceive adulthood and think about their future selves as adults. This study sought to investigate their concerns, aspirations, and expectations for adulthood, providing a comprehensive understanding of their views. A qualitative approach was employed, using the grid elaboration method to scaffold data collection during interviews with six autistic adolescents.

Using reflexive thematic analysis, this research identified and examined five key themes from the participants' responses; Aspirations for Independence and Agency, Not Quite Grown: The Maturity Gap, Life Skills for Independent Living, Social Skills and Relationship Building, and Ambitions and Concerns about Future Careers. The findings suggest that autistic adolescents often think about independence, relationships, and careers when contemplating their future selves in adulthood. Analysis further highlighted significant tensions between participants’ hopes for the future and the expectations of achieving these goals. While autistic adolescents appear to aspire to be self-reliant and form positive relationships, they also express concerns about skill gaps and uncertainties in achieving their goals.

This research offers insight into the specific needs and challenges faced by autistic adolescents as they think about and plan for adulthood. The study highlights several implications for educational professionals, emphasising the importance of adopting strengths-based, person-centred approaches. These findings suggest a need for developing targeted support programs that enhance self-reliance, social skills, and career planning among autistic adolescents.

Future research could employ longitudinal methods to track changes in autistic adolescent views over time. Additionally, incorporating quantitative measures to explore structural factors that may influence autistic adolescents' views of adulthood could provide a deeper understanding of these dynamics.

Item Type:	Thesis (University of Nottingham only) (DAppEdPsy)
Supervisors:	Durbin, Nick
Keywords:	Autistic adolescents; autistic adults; autism; adulthood; future self
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Faculties/Schools:	UK Campuses > Faculty of Science > School of Psychology
Item ID:	78739
Depositing User:	Dundas, Suzanna
Date Deposited:	15 Oct 2024 04:40
Last Modified:	15 Oct 2024 04:40
URI:	https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/78739

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