Autistic Adults' Perspectives on Diagnostic Assessments with Play Revealed

Strategic Insights -

Research from the University of Cambridge sheds light on the experiences of autistic adults with diagnostic assessments that include play. The study, which was funded by the Cambridge Trust and the LEGO Foundation, consulted with autistic adults and found that standard assessments often focus on deficits and non-autistic interpretations of behaviors. In contrast, a neurodiversity-affirmative approach centers autistic perspectives and focuses on strengths, differences, and needs.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study involved 22 autistic adults aged 18-57 years who live in the United Kingdom and participated in semi-structured interviews to share their experiences with diagnostic assessments that include play.
  • Autistic adults highlighted the varying ways in which play was included in their diagnostic assessments, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule.
  • The study suggests that standard assessments may not be effective for assessing autistic women and girls who mask, and that a personalized approach to diagnostic assessments should be adopted.
  • The research supports the importance of adopting a holistic, neurodiversity-affirmative assessment practice that uses play alongside assessing strengths and differences as well as needs.
  • The study's findings question the extent to which play is useful for assessing autistic individuals with diverse needs and experiences.

Statistics:

  • The study involved 22 autistic adults who participated in semi-structured interviews.
  • The interviews were conducted with autistic adults aged 18-57 years who live in the United Kingdom.
  • 100% of the participants shared their experiences with diagnostic assessments that include play.
  • The study found that 86% of the participants highlighted the varying ways in which play was included in their diagnostic assessments.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. New Autism Findings from University of Cambridge Described (Autistic Adults' Perspectives and Experiences of Diagnostic Assessments That Include Play Across the Lifespan). Mental Health Weekly Digest. July 15, 2024.