| Title: |
Perspectives and Experiences of Physical Activity among Autistic Adults in Middle Adulthood |
| Language: |
English |
| Authors: |
James McLeod; Martin Roderick; Mary Hanley (ORCID 0000-0003-4994-4339); Deborah M Riby (ORCID 0000-0001-5747-8441); Patrick Jachyra (ORCID 0000-0003-3071-3178) |
| Source: |
Autism: The International Journal of Research and Practice. 2025 29(12):3058-3071. |
| Availability: |
SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: https://sagepub.com |
| Peer Reviewed: |
Y |
| Page Count: |
14 |
| Publication Date: |
2025 |
| Document Type: |
Journal Articles; Reports - Research |
| Descriptors: |
Adults; Autism Spectrum Disorders; Physical Activity Level; Trust (Psychology); Needs; Perceptual Impairments; Trauma Informed Approach; Foreign Countries; Barriers; Experience; Life Style |
| Geographic Terms: |
United Kingdom |
| DOI: |
10.1177/13623613251360862 |
| ISSN: |
1362-3613; 1461-7005 |
| Abstract: |
Physical activity (PA) participation among autistic adults is low; however, it is unclear why this is the case. To date, little research has included the perspectives of autistic adults during middle adulthood to understand how to support their PA and to understand the complexity of their daily lives. Seventeen autistic adults aged 36-59 years participated in two online, semi-structured interviews (N = 34). Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyze the data, and the socio-ecological model was applied to interpret the themes. Reflexive notes (N = 34) made during the research process also were analyzed to support the rigour of the interpretations. Neuro-normative assumptions about autism and PA, the importance of trust and sensory sensitivities shaped PA participation for these autistic adults. The new concept of neuro-normative assumptions highlights how pervasive assumptions were damaging, made it difficult to build trust and decreased the predilection of PA participation. This article delivers original and significant knowledge and calls on the field to co-produce neurodivergent-informed PA practices that are reflective of the lives, needs and abilities of autistic adults. We conclude the article by highlighting how a trauma-informed approach may have potential value in building trust and supporting autistic adults in PA. |
| Abstractor: |
As Provided |
| Entry Date: |
2025 |
| Accession Number: |
EJ1489404 |
| Database: |
ERIC |