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Description

This literature review examines social experiences of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during adolescence and adulthood, addressing a critical knowledge gap regarding developmental trajectories and support needs across the lifespan. Despite increased ASD awareness, individuals face persistent social challenges, with research showing concerning rates of isolation. The purpose of this review is to understand how sensory processing differences and atypical gaze behaviors contribute to social outcomes in ASD. As such, three key questions were asked: How do social participation patterns change from adolescence to adulthood? What sensory-based subtypes exist within ASD? How do different gaze behavior patterns relate to social functioning? Through analysis of recent empirical studies, the research found that many individuals with ASD experience limited social engagement throughout development, with community participation decreasing during the transition to adulthood. Distinct sensory subtypes were identified, including groups characterized by neural hyperresponsivity that correlates with everyday sensory difficulties. Both hyperarousal/avoidance and hypoarousal/indifference patterns of gaze behavior were observed in different subgroups. Social outcomes were predicted by individual characteristics (communication abilities, cognitive skills) and environmental factors (case management, socioeconomic resources). Future research should explore longitudinal trajectories and develop targeted interventions based on sensory profiles to better address social challenges across the diverse autism spectrum.

Publication Date

6-2-2025

Document Type

Poster

City

Grand Forks, ND

Keywords

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), social participation, sensory processing, gaze behavior, adolescence, adulthood

Disciplines

Psychology

Comments

Presented at the Spring 2025 Arts & Sciences UNDergraduate Showcase in Grand Forks, ND, May 8, 2025.

Social Experiences of Individuals with Autism in Adolescence and Adulthood: A literature review

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Psychology Commons

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