Abstract
Despite increasing attention to understanding strengths in those on the autism spectrum, few studies have explored this in older individuals. The present study provides a qualitative analysis of parent-reported strengths and positive qualities of 68 15–30-year-olds with autism and/or intellectual disability (ID). Most parents (97%) reported at least one positive quality. Themes were consistent with previous studies; Personality characteristics (82%) and Sociability (53%) were reported most frequently. A Work Ethic/Motivation category not previously reported emerged. Autistic individuals (with/without ID) were more likely than those with ID-only to have a Specific Skill. Findings highlight the importance of recognizing strengths of autistic adults. Research is needed to understand how to best leverage positive qualities to promote goal achievement and quality of life.
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Funding
This study was funded by National Institute of Mental Health (Grant No. K23MH115166-01) to Vanessa Hus Bal; Autism Speaks; naomi e. lohr award for excellence in clinical psychology.
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VHB designed the study and analytic plan and supervised all aspects of the project. LTV and ZL coded the data under supervision of SW. EW and LTV conducted analyses and drafted the manuscript. All authors reviewed the edited the final draft of the manuscript.
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Wilkinson, E., Vo, L.T.V., London, Z. et al. Parent-Reported Strengths and Positive Qualities of Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or Intellectual Disability. J Autism Dev Disord 52, 5471–5482 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-021-05405-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-021-05405-x