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Article
Publication date: 21 June 2023

Alexandra Eleftheria Broupi, Dimitrios Kokaridas, Vasileios Tsimaras and Panagiotis Varsamis

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) present challenges in their social and communication skills such as difficulties in developing interpersonal relationships and…

Abstract

Purpose

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) present challenges in their social and communication skills such as difficulties in developing interpersonal relationships and verbal and nonverbal communication; repetitive and restricted behaviors concerning resistance to environmental change, stereotyped movements and unusual reactions to sensory stimuli; and significant delays in motor development and performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a combined visual arts and exercise program on the communication and social behavior skills of people with ASD.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted in a Creative Employment Center of People with Disabilities, and the sample consisted of 18 participants with ASD divided randomly into a control group (CG) (n = 8) and an experiment group (EG) (n = 10). The Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) was used prior and after the implementation of the intervention program. EG participants attended an intervention program, whereas CG individuals followed their daily routine activities, and they only completed the SCQ prior and after the program.

Findings

EG demonstrated statically significant improvements in communication skills and social behavior, compared to the results of the CG. Furthermore, participants with Asperger’s syndrome showed a higher improvement rate compared to participants with autism, while no statistically significant differences were noticed concerning gender and age of the participants.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper to investigate the effect of a combined visual arts and adapted physical activity program on the social and communication skills of people with ASD.

Details

Advances in Autism, vol. 9 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-3868

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 March 2023

Fiona Laskaris

This paper aims to highlight devastating consequences when professionals misappropriate the presumption of capacity in s1 Mental Capacity Act 2005.

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to highlight devastating consequences when professionals misappropriate the presumption of capacity in s1 Mental Capacity Act 2005.

Design/methodology/approach

This is the story of my vulnerable son's life and the failure of services to provide the professional help and support he needed in order to stay safe. I have flagged, with specific examples, how the law was perpetually misapplied in his case, with tragic consequences.

Findings

The application of the statutory presumption of capacity is widely misunderstood. The presumption is frequently misappropriated by health and social care professionals as well as by legal professionals. Concerned families are being ignored or blocked out by professionals, many of whom seem unclear as to when evidence based mental capacity assessments, with rationale, are required. This is rendering the legislation in place for the protection of vulnerable adults ineffective and then allowing preventable deaths to evade appropriate scrutiny.

Research limitations/implications

Some of the documents (e.g. police logs and records, some social care records) were withheld from the author or heavily redacted when the author requested them following her son's death.

Practical implications

Vulnerable people can frequently suffer neglect and abuse in the community. Their deaths, following state agency failures, are not being investigated as they should be, preventing learning from mistakes.

Social implications

We live in a society where, sadly, vulnerable people are often not appropriately supported by professional services. As a result, the police can be left to pick up the pieces following mental health service failures. Whilst there may now be a greater awareness of autism, this is not yet accompanied by a greater understanding of the condition.

Originality/value

Christopher's story is unique, raising issues of serious concern across many different agencies. These appear to stem from a widespread lack of understanding of the vulnerability of adults with high functioning autism/Asperger's syndrome and a significant discrepancy between their intelligence and their life skills.

Details

The Journal of Adult Protection, vol. 25 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1466-8203

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 May 2023

Nicholas Andrew Hudson, Jake M. Linnane and Kelly Rayner-Smith

Social media use in autistic people has been identified as a potential avenue for less pressured social contact. Given shifts towards online socialisation, this study aims to…

Abstract

Purpose

Social media use in autistic people has been identified as a potential avenue for less pressured social contact. Given shifts towards online socialisation, this study aims to systematically review the available literature on how autistic people experience and use social media.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review was carried out using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses system, with relevant literature reviewed and synthesised using a narrative approach. Inclusion criteria included adults and/or adolescents as the sole sample, a focus on autism and social media use as the sole/main topic.

Findings

A total of 1,278 research studies were initially identified; following screening, 15 papers were reviewed. Studies demonstrated some support for the positive role social media can play and presented its use as a smart adaptation for the challenges of neurotypical socialising. For autistic people, social media may provide a balance between meeting the need to be connected to people without the pressure of managing aspects, such as tone of voice or body language.

Research limitations/implications

Most studies were questionnaire-based with substantial threats to validity. Samples were self-selecting, with autism status not always confirmed. Individual studies used a broad approach to the definition of social media, including online gaming and other online activities, precluding firm conclusions being made.

Practical implications

There may be a Goldilocks “just right” level of social media contact that could maximise connectedness to others without impacting negatively on mental health, offline relationships and activities of daily living.

Originality/value

This paper presents a novel account of research from case studies and larger scale questionnaire studies.

Details

Advances in Autism, vol. 9 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-3868

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 2 October 2023

Alice Leyman

The facilitation of digital spaces, in lieu of urban material spaces, for social interaction through computer gaming and other play activities has become particularly important to…

Abstract

The facilitation of digital spaces, in lieu of urban material spaces, for social interaction through computer gaming and other play activities has become particularly important to children in the wake of the 2020–2021 Coronavirus pandemic, to combat the negative effects of physical lockdown restrictions. Pre-pandemic, autistic children living in urban areas may already experience exclusion from physical society and may consequently already be isolated from current imposed normative societal groupings due to their neuro-difference, sensory sensitivities to the surrounding environment, communication comprehension, and social understanding. However, an exploration into personally and independently chosen play activities by autistic youth has identified how such isolation can be overcome and positive social experiences created. A particular play practice, cosplay, and related companionable fandom activities are providing and creating digital spaces for autistic youth to be social. Character play is also enabling the use of limited physical spaces within urban contexts and as such combatting anxiety from sensory overstimulation. Thematic analysis of online content together with semi-structured interviews with autistic young people have indicated a positive connection between cosplay practice, increased social activity, and reduced levels of sensory overload, anxiety, and depression, with early findings suggesting transferrable elements that could inform more effective support for others with social, environmental, and communication challenges or restrictions.

Details

Sociological Research and Urban Children and Youth
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80117-444-2

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 June 2023

Esther Skelhorn, Alessandra Girardi and Sam Cooper-Evans

Some individuals with autism may engage in violent behaviour. Research into autism specific factors (ASFs) that may contribute to violence is limited. The purpose of this paper is…

Abstract

Purpose

Some individuals with autism may engage in violent behaviour. Research into autism specific factors (ASFs) that may contribute to violence is limited. The purpose of this paper is to explore the feasibility of use of an ASF framework which was developed to inform risk formulation and treatment needs.

Design/methodology/approach

Retrospective identification and evaluation of ASFs in offenders with autism (N = 13) at childhood, time of index offence and in current risk behaviours. The ASFs described in the framework were repetitive behaviours and circumscribed interests; poor social understanding and empathy; sensitivity to sensory stimulation; and disruption to rigid behavioural routines or difficulties coping with change.

Findings

There was evidence for all four ASFs being consistently present in childhood, contributing to violent behaviour at the index offence and current risk behaviours in at least one case. Poor social understanding and empathy was often present at both childhood and index offence in all cases. Of the seven cases with offence paralleling behaviour, five had at least one ASF present at each timepoint.

Practical implications

This proof-of-concept study provides initial support that ASFs play a role in offending behaviour of individuals with autism. Clinicians working in specialist and generic forensic services, with an in-depth knowledge of autism, could use the ASF framework to enhance risk assessments and facilitate more targeted treatment planning for offenders with autism in specialist and general forensic services.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to test the application of the ASF framework in an autistic offending population.

Details

Journal of Intellectual Disabilities and Offending Behaviour, vol. 14 no. 2/3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-8824

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 August 2022

Joseph Sakdalan and Yvonne Maxwell

Despite some advances in the assessment and treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), there remains a paucity of intervention and research literature in treating adults with…

Abstract

Purpose

Despite some advances in the assessment and treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), there remains a paucity of intervention and research literature in treating adults with ASD. There is growing evidence supporting a relationship between the core features of ASD and emotion dysregulation. There is an overlap between ASD and borderline personality disorder (BPD) characteristics such as emotional dysregulation, sensory issues and social skills deficits. This paper aims to explore the applications of dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) concepts and skills in treating ASD individuals who display challenging or offending behaviours. The similarities in characteristics between ASD and BPD and the core issue of emotion dysregulation hold promise in the utility of DBT with ASD.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper that includes a case vignette.

Findings

A DBT-informed treatment approach using the adaptations and reconceptualization, i.e. risky mind–wise mind outlined in this paper, can be considered promising in addressing issues for ASD individuals, particularly those with challenging and/or offending behaviours. DBT incorporates different elements of applied behaviour analysis, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness skills, sensory-based treatments, psychosocial interventions and emotion regulation skills, which makes it a more cohesive and integrated approach to treatment. The authors assert that DBT can be considered a more integrated, strengths-based, habilitative and trauma-informed approach which can be promising in its application to address challenging behaviours or offending in ASD individuals.

Research limitations/implications

It is recommended that research be carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of adapted DBT programs in treating ASD individuals presenting with challenging and/or offending behaviours. Future research can focus on evaluating the effectiveness of the different DBT concepts and skills and the different DBT modules to determine which components of the program are particularly useful for this client group.

Practical implications

Treatment manuals have already been developed for clients with intellectual disability and developmental disabilities who exhibit challenging and/or offending behaviour; hence, it is recommended that modifications be made to make it more applicable and appropriate for ASD individuals. Modifications should address ASD-specific issues (e.g. black and white thinking, cognitive rigidity, sensory issues, impaired theory of mind, emotion dysregulation issues, social skills deficits and anxiety issues). The use of DBT has much wider implications regarding addressing comorbid mental health conditions and personality issues in this client group.

Originality/value

There are limited psychological interventions that prove to be useful for individuals with ASD with complex presentations and challenging or offending behaviours. This paper discusses the application of adapted DBT concepts and skills that appear to be promising in the treatment of this client group.

Book part
Publication date: 9 May 2023

Ruth Rentschler, Ayse Collins, Karen Williams and Fara Azmat

Understanding disabled people as gray-collar workers who are under-paid, under-valued and under-employed is recognized as in urgent need of attention but remains unaddressed…

Abstract

Understanding disabled people as gray-collar workers who are under-paid, under-valued and under-employed is recognized as in urgent need of attention but remains unaddressed. Based on 30 semi-structured interviews with disabled people, observations and document analysis, the authors argue that the disabled gray-collar workers in the performing arts provide a context and socio-cultural perspective on how gray-collar workers can attain dignity through social inclusion. Building on a novel framework of four dimensions of social inclusion theory – access, participation, representation and empowerment – the authors identify social interactions portrayed in the performing arts in order to deconstruct the processes that normalize and reinforce exclusion and inequality. The authors demonstrate how social inclusion can be “enabled” which has implications for theory, policy and practice.

Details

Management and Organizational Studies on Blue- and Gray-collar Workers: Diversity of Collars
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80455-754-9

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 April 2023

Ayse Collins, Ian Fillis and Zeynep Goknil Sanal

The purpose of this paper is to develop an understanding for the social inclusion of disabled performers in a developing country to create awareness and improve policies/practices.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an understanding for the social inclusion of disabled performers in a developing country to create awareness and improve policies/practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed qualitative methodology, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews, site visits/observations and review of secondary data.

Findings

The data from different respondent groups showed the social inclusion should be reviewed at three levels: the state, society and individual. The review of existing policies revealed the neglect of the state regarding disabled people in general and even more so in performing arts due to the lack of enforcement of national and international agreements. Findings indicate that social inclusion of disabled performers is a minor issue, especially in a developing country where access to basic human rights and needs may be difficult. Amidst such difficulties, performing arts is not seen as a priority compared to other needs of disabled people and performers.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include the limited number of disabled performers who could be identified and were willing to participate in the study. Those working in venues/public offices were also reluctant to participate. The greatest limitation was the broad lack of interest in disabled performers.

Originality/value

In Türkiye, studies on disabled people tend to focus on basic needs like health, education and employment. None, to best of researchers' knowledge, explore the social inclusion of disabled performers. This is an original study because it collects and discusses primary data on this topic, revealing the state-level negligence/oversight, the apathy of society and the degree to which an individual with disabilities must struggle to participate in performing arts. Consequently, this study shows the difficulty of developing social inclusion, equality and diversity in an emerging economy for disabled performers to raise awareness and present grounds for further legal enforcement. Moreover, implications allow for a global understanding of social inclusion that moves beyond a biased or privileged understanding/critique of disability centered on the developed world.

Details

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal, vol. 42 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-7149

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 December 2022

Phuong Nguyen, Viviana d'Auria and Ann Heylighen

This scoping review aims to (1) summarize research and design writings on residential design for adults on the autism spectrum in peer-reviewed and grey literature, (2) identify…

Abstract

Purpose

This scoping review aims to (1) summarize research and design writings on residential design for adults on the autism spectrum in peer-reviewed and grey literature, (2) identify research gaps in this field and (3) understand the concept of independent living based on this literature.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic search was conducted in seven databases using 47 search terms related to residence, design and autism. It was supplemented with a manual search for recommended authors and architectural websites.

Findings

A final review of 37 sources highlighted that existing residential design guidelines are supported by weak evidence due to the lack of methods for involving and limited direct contact with autistic adults. Moreover, the needs of people living or working with them tend to be overlooked. Finally, the role of independent living has received little attention in the literature on residential design for adults on the spectrum.

Research limitations/implications

The findings show a need for taking on board autistic people's understanding of independent living. Future research about residential design for autistic adults should be conducted with them, in diverse housing settings, providing nuanced insight into their housing needs and those of the people around them.

Originality/value

This scoping review is the first to provide an overview of what is known about residential design for autistic adults with a focus on the concept of independent living.

Details

Open House International, vol. 48 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0168-2601

Keywords

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