Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice pioneers new and inclusive
Sydney, Australia: The Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) has announced recent findings that indicate Autistic adults experience loneliness at higher rates than their non-Autistic peers. Central to this study is a first of its kind loneliness measurement tool, which provides a more accurate assessment of loneliness in Autistic individuals and its impact on their mental health and overall wellbeing.
The 12-month long research project involved a diverse group of participants, consisting of 416 Autistic individuals and 212 non-Autistic individuals. The study addresses a critical gap in understanding and assessing loneliness for Autistic people, offering new insights into the specific challenges faced by the Autistic community and ways to overcome them.
Dr Abbey Love, Research Fellow at ARCAP, said until now loneliness research has predominantly relied on tools developed for non-Autistic people, which often do not capture the unique and nuanced experiences of Autistic individuals.
“Our Australian-led study into loneliness is unique,” said Dr Love. “We worked with an international team of Autistic and non-Autistic collaborators to understand how we could make the survey accessible for all, meaning the language used in questions was clear and concise, hotlinks were included for additional information and visual and audio supports were prominent.
“This means, for the first time we have been able to garner more precise and trustworthy information about the loneliness levels of Autistic individuals, compared with the wider population, which is essential for developing targeted supports. We can have confidence in our results now.”
Results show Autistic people face heightened and more frequent feelings of loneliness compared to their non-Autistic peers, leading to increased risks of depression, anxiety, and other severe health outcomes. Aspect’s study showed that Autistic people who are lonely reported higher levels of social
anxiety and depression, a finding that is consistent with other studies that highlight the increased risk of mental health issues among Autistic individuals.
“This loneliness research tool will help allied health professionals, including psychologists and therapists, to better understand and support their Autistic clients by enabling them to capture a more accurate assessment of their emotions and state of mind, particularly in relation to loneliness,” added Dr Love.
"We are just beginning this research program, but one of the most crucial insights we've gained is the value of open discussion. Addressing the significance and impact of loneliness, exploring how it is experienced by Autistic individuals, and considering creative, flexible approaches to social connection are all vital. Social connection doesn't have to fit a rigid definition for it to be meaningful to someone on the autism spectrum."
Emma Rogers (pseudonym), an Autistic participant involved in Aspect’s early research shared: "Even when surrounded by people, I often feel isolated and lonely because they don't share or respond to my interests. My passion is horses, and when people don't engage with me about them as I’d hoped, it makes me feel sad and isolated. This research is important because it addresses my feelings of loneliness."
The development of the loneliness research tool is part of ARCAP’s commitment to inclusive research practices, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Autistic adults are central to the research that affects them.
More details on the loneliness research study can be found here.
For more information:
Karen Keech 0411 052 408 karen@establishedpr.com.au
About Aspect and ARCAP
Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) is Australia’s largest autism-specific service provider, with one of the world’s biggest autism-specific schools programs. A not-for-profit organisation, we work in partnership with people of all ages on the autism spectrum and their families to deliver distinct services, practices and research that recognise a different brilliant® - understanding, engaging and celebrating the strengths and interests of people on the autism spectrum.
The Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) the research arm of Aspect. We conduct participatory research that is translated into respectful, proven practices to positively impact the lives of autistic people, their families and carers.
