Emergence and Persistence of Loneliness Among Autistic Adults: A Theoretical Framework

Abstract

Research has indicated persistently high rates of loneliness among autistic adults that can have marked negative effects on both mental and physical health. To synthesize existing evidence and provide a foundation for future research on this topic, we have proposed an empirically informed Autism and Loneliness Theoretical Framework that depicts possible contributing factors to the emergence and persistence of loneliness in this population. Our proposed framework integrates autism research with models of loneliness in the general population to illustrate that certain characteristics (including, but not limited to, autistic traits) may be linked with unsuccessful social interactions in a non-autistic majority world (Individual Barriers). This occurs within the context of Social Environment Barriers, which may further exacerbate social disconnect for autistic adults due to limited social opportunities, bullying, and/or lack of acceptance. The potential correlates of loneliness may exist on biological, behavioral, cognitive, and emotional levels for autistic adults (Empirically Supported Correlates of Loneliness). Based on this framework, we identify areas for future research, including directionality, mechanisms, moderators, longitudinal patterns, and clinical practice. Expanding autism research within each of these areas will have far-reaching impacts for autistic adults.

Community Brief

Why is this topic important?

The topic of loneliness in autistic adults is important because recent research tells us that loneliness is a common problem for autistic adults. Feelings of loneliness may cause and/or worsen physical and mental health challenges.

What is the purpose of this article?

The purpose of this article is to create a new framework to help identify things that may explain why some autistic adults are lonely for a long time. This framework was created by using models of loneliness that already exist in the general population combined with information from research studies on autism and loneliness. No new data were collected or analyzed to develop this framework.

What does the framework show?

The framework we propose suggests that autistic adults may experience multiple types of barriers to desired social connection in a non-autistic majority world, including personal characteristics (including, but not limited to, autistic traits; we call these Individual Barriers) and other experiences within the social world (e.g., limited social opportunities, bullying, and/or lack of acceptance; we call these Social Environment Barriers). In addition, loneliness is likely related to biological, behavioral, and cognitive differences, all of which may make the desired social connection even harder for autistic adults.

What personal or professional perspectives do the authors bring to this topic?

The authors of this article include two people who work with autistic children and adults in clinical practice and have years of research and clinical training related to autism.

How will this article help autistic adults now or in the future?

This article will guide future research that wants to figure out why so many autistic adults feel lonely, why loneliness tends to persist or get worse over time, how it affects autistic adulthood, and what can be done to help. Answers to these questions are important because the consequences of loneliness can be so serious.