Pilootstudie: opvolging van patiënten onderzocht in het Referentie Centrum voor Autismespectrumstoornissen in het jaar 2005-2006

Abstract

Pilot study: follow-up of patients examined in the Reference Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders in the year 2005-2006 Little is known about the long-term functioning, social inclusion and participation in society of patients diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in childhood. Moreover, previous research mainly focuses on the impact of diagnosis on psychological functioning and autism symptoms. In addition, studies show conflicting results. The aim of this pilot study is to use a descriptive study to research the long-term social inclusion and participation in society in Flemish (young) adults who were examined at childhood in the Reference Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders (RCA) in Antwerp. To map this out, level of education, employment, living situation and relationships were surveyed. Fifty-three (young) adults with ASD or originally suspected ASD (mean age 23.5 years, SD = 2.6), examined for ASD between the ages of 1 and 18 years, participated in the study. Results show that (young) adults with a childhood diagnosis of ASD are 4 times less likely to obtain a university degree than the general population, and only 1 in 6 experience supportive measures at work. Which factors play a role needs to be further investigated. This allows additional information to be collected that may be necessary when developing treatment programs and optimizing support for young people with ASD in the transition to adulthood. After all, social inclusion, participation in society and fulfilling the most important life tasks (education, employment, living situation, …) promote both the quality of life and the general well-being of adults with ASD.