ERIC Number: EJ1372061
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023-Apr
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0162-3257
EISSN: EISSN-1573-3432
Clothes, Sensory Experiences and Autism: Is Wearing the Right Fabric Important?
Kyriacou, Chrysovalanto; Forrester-Jones, Rachel; Triantafyllopoulou, Paraskevi
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, v53 n4 p1495-1508 Apr 2023
Tactile defensiveness in autistic individuals is the least investigated sensory modality. The current multi-component, explorative study aimed to understand the experiences of ten autistic adults regarding tactile defensiveness and fabrics, using semi-structured, one-to-one interviews. Participants were asked to discuss the effects of seven provided samples of fabrics and were also asked to bring their 'favourite' fabric (s) and express their thoughts about their choices. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and Content Analysis, the findings showed that some fabrics can impact individuals' reported wellbeing. Participants' experiences with several stimuli appeared to have helped them implement coping strategies. By understanding tactile defensiveness, society could move towards increasing autism-friendly approaches with appropriate fabrics. Recommendations for future research, policy and practice are also discussed.
Descriptors: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Perceptual Impairments, Tactual Perception, Clothing, Adults, Well Being, Stimuli, Coping
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A