The Experience of Concurrent Autism Spectrum Disorder and Psychosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Experience of Concurrent Autism Spectrum Disorder and Psychosis
IRAS ID
291807
Contact name
Joanne Hodgekins
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of East Anglia
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 7 months, 30 days
Research summary
Summary of Research
Research has shown a high level of co-morbidity between Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASD) and Psychosis, with estimates of co-occurrence as high as 28%. In attempting to understand this, studies have found that there is a significant overlap between these conditions in terms of genes, brain structure and symptoms (e.g. communication difficulties), however our understanding of the experience of this co-morbidity is lacking. This research therefore aims to improve our understanding of lived experience by interviewing people with both psychosis and ASD. We would then hope to use this information in future projects to start to build more targeted interventions.
Summary of Results
This study aimed to explore this phenomenon through the investigation of lived experience of adults with both conditions. This study used qualitative methodology (Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis) to explore the lived experience of co-morbid Autism and psychosis in six adult participants (5 male, 1 female) aged 23-35 years. Participants spoke of their experiences of psychosis and Autism both independently and in relation to one another. Most participants considered these conditions related with psychosis most commonly described as having an additive or amplificatory effect on experiences associated with Autism, such as difficulties with sensory perception, and cognitive intensity and fixation. Participant experiences of treatment received by early intervention services were also explored, with social support with housing, benefits and employment being frequently cited as most valuable. Experiences of psychological therapy were also discussed. Most striking from these experiential accounts was the frequently widespread, chronic nature of the difficulties experienced in the context of Autism, both in their own right and in conjunction with psychosis. Therefore, though different for everyone, the impact of this condition should not be underestimated in this population: ‘It’s literally a part of your entire life’. Due to this, adaptations are required for this group to ensure that the treatment received within early intervention services is appropriate and effective.
REC name
London - Queen Square Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/LO/0242
Date of REC Opinion
25 Mar 2021
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion