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A capabilities approach to understanding and supporting autistic adulthood
Elizabeth Pellicano1,2, Unsa Fatima1, Gabrielle Hall1
1Macquarie School of Education, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales Australia.
Nature Reviews Psychology
|September 12, 2022
Summary
Research on autistic adulthood is limited, often viewing autism solely as deficits. Applying a capabilities approach reveals autistic adults thrive in some areas but struggle in others, necessitating a more complex understanding and direct engagement in research.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental differences
- Autism research and services
Background:
- Limited research exists on autistic adulthood and effective support services.
- Autism is often viewed as a childhood condition and a set of biological deficits, hindering comprehensive understanding.
- Orthodox scientific approaches limit knowledge of autistic experiences and available supports.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply Martha Nussbaum's capabilities approach to autistic adulthood research.
- To identify areas where autistic adults thrive and face challenges.
- To inform researchers, clinicians, and policymakers on supporting flourishing autistic lives.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing research on autistic adulthood.
- Application of the capabilities approach framework, focusing on ten core elements of human thriving.
- Analysis of research findings through the lens of capabilities.
Main Results:
- The capabilities approach reveals a more complex picture of autistic adulthood than conventional accounts.
- Identified specific areas of thriving and struggle for autistic adults.
- Highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in autism research and support.
Conclusions:
- A capabilities approach offers a richer understanding of autistic adulthood.
- Direct engagement with autistic adults in research is crucial for progress.
- Recommendations for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to foster flourishing autistic lives.
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