Experiences of Autism Acceptance and Mental Health in Autistic Adults

Eilidh Cage, Jessica Di Monaco, Victoria Newell

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Abstract

Mental health difficulties are highly prevalent in individuals on the autism spectrum. The current study examined how experiences and perceptions of autism acceptance could impact on the mental health of autistic adults. 111 adults on the autism spectrum completed an online survey examining their experiences of autism acceptance, along with symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Regression analyses showed that autism acceptance from external sources and personal acceptance significantly predicted depression. Acceptance from others also significantly predicted stress but acceptance did not predict anxiety. Further analyses suggested that experiences of “camouflaging” could relate to higher rates of depression. The current study highlights the importance of considering how autism acceptance could contribute to mental health in autism.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)473–484
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
Volume48
Issue number2
Early online date25 Oct 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2018

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