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Loneliness in autistic adults: A systematic review
Kana Grace1, Anna Remington1, Brynmor Lloyd-Evans1
1University College London, UK.
Summary
This systematic review highlights the limited research on loneliness in autistic adults. Future studies should explore collective loneliness, anxiety, depression, and acceptance to better understand and reduce autistic adult loneliness.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- Growing interest in autistic individuals' experiences of loneliness.
- Existing research predominantly focuses on autistic children and adolescents, neglecting adults.
Approach:
- Conducted a systematic review of research on loneliness in autistic adults, searching literature up to April 9, 2021.
- Identified and analyzed 34 relevant research articles.
Key Points:
- Limited research directly captures first-hand experiences of loneliness in autistic adults.
- Few studies utilize loneliness questionnaires specifically designed for autistic adults.
- Collective loneliness, or societal 'fit,' is significant but under-researched compared to relationship-based loneliness.
- Anxiety, depression, and lack of societal understanding/acceptance may increase loneliness.
- Relationships and self-acceptance may mitigate loneliness.
Conclusions:
- Significant gaps exist in understanding loneliness in autistic adults.
- Further research is needed to explore under-investigated aspects like collective loneliness and protective factors.
- Future studies should prioritize the unique experiences and needs of autistic adults regarding loneliness.
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