1. A systematic review and meta-synthesis on perspectives of autistic young people and their parents on psychological well-being.
- Author
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Cooper, Kate, Kumarendran, Sanjay, and Barona, Manuela
- Subjects
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YOUNG adults , *PSYCHOLOGICAL well-being , *AUTISTIC people , *AUTISTIC children , *HAPPINESS , *PSYCHOTHERAPY , *PARENTS - Abstract
Autistic adolescents are at increased risk of developing mental health problems. Improving psychological well-being could reduce the likelihood of such problems developing. Research has tended to prioritise the voices of non-autistic people and has neglected to consult autistic young people themselves. Our meta-synthesis aimed to systematically review qualitative research on the perspectives of autistic young people and their parents on the lived experience of psychological well-being. We conducted a pre-planned systematic search which identified 2552 papers, with 37 of those meeting full inclusion criteria. Included papers were published between 2008 and 2023, with three-quarters published since 2018. We extracted qualitative data from each paper pertaining to the lived experience of psychological well-being in autistic young people and conducted a thematic synthesis. We identified three themes; Walking a tightrope: the need for growth versus recharging through rest and familiarity; Developing a positive sense of self in the social world; Internally driven sources of happiness. Psychological interventions aiming to improve well-being in autistic young people should respect their autonomy and need for rest whilst encouraging growth and skills development, provide opportunities to understand social needs and differences, and promote opportunities to enjoy special interests. • A systematic review of the lived experience of well-being in autistic adolescents. • 37 papers published between 2008 and 2023 were included in a thematic synthesis. • Results give new insights into factors contributing to psychological well-being. • Psychological interventions should be designed based on lived experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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