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Autism in adolescence and adulthood
Kristina Denisova1, Catherine R G Jones2
1Autism Origins Lab, Division of Math and Natural Sciences, Department of Psychology, City University of New York, Queens College and Graduate Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA. kristina.denisova@qc.cuny.edu.
Scientific Reports
|August 7, 2026
Summary
Autism research has historically focused on children. This collection emphasizes understanding autistic experiences and neurobiology in adolescence and adulthood, crucial for promoting wellbeing and societal acceptance.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
Background:
- Early autism descriptions (1940s) focused on children.
- Decades of research prioritized autistic children's needs.
- Autism is a lifelong condition with unique adolescent and adult developmental transitions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the need for understanding autistic experiences and neurobiology in adolescence and adulthood.
- To examine autism through a context-sensitive lens considering developmental relevance.
- To focus on supporting emotion regulation, wellbeing, and mental health in autistic adolescents and adults.
Main Methods:
- Diverse methodologies including behavioral, physiological, qualitative, and computational (machine learning).
- Focus on understanding and supporting emotion regulation, wellbeing, and mental health.
- Context-sensitive analysis of developmentally relevant experiences.
Main Results:
- Adolescence and adulthood are critical periods of autistic development requiring focused scientific attention.
- Understanding autistic neurobiology and experiences in later life stages is essential.
- Effective support requires a societal commitment to neurodiversity and change.
Conclusions:
- Autism research must extend its focus to encompass adolescence and adulthood.
- Context-sensitive approaches are vital for understanding autistic development across the lifespan.
- Societal acceptance and adaptation are key to autistic flourishing in adolescence and adulthood.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:26Modeling in Therapy
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Participant Modeling
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Participant Modeling
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01:24Revisionist Views of Adolescent and Adult Cognition
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01:18Cognitive Development During Adolescence
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01:27Emerging Adulthood
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01:27Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adulthood
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