No images? Click here
New online self-compassion program for Autistic Adults
The Aspect Self-compassion Program for Autistic Adults (ASPAA) is a self-guided online training program designed by Dr Ru Ying Cai and Dr Chris Edwards from the Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP), with the support of Autistic advisors.
We're thrilled that around 450 people have accessed ASPAA since its launch in August!
ASPAA was developed in response to our research, which found that Autistic individuals who have a stronger sense of self-compassion demonstrated improved emotional regulation, higher levels of well-being, and reduced levels of anxiety and depression. In a trial of ASPAA with 39 Autistic adults, we found that self-compassion levels improved along with measures of well-being.
There are two versions of ASPAA:
- A free version for Autistic adults
- A clinician version for clinicians, therapists, psychologists, and mental health professionals to support Autistic clients to become more self-compassionate, which can be purchased from the Aspect online shop (A$49).
Video: Gene talks about how he benefited from ASPAA
World Mental Health Month focus on autism and loneliness
New research study
During World Mental Health Month, we launched a new international research study exploring loneliness of Autistic adults. Led by ARCAP's Dr Abigail Love and in collaboration with Griffith University, the University of Sydney, Ending Loneliness Together and the University of Toledo, the new study will develop a better understanding of the extent and nature of loneliness among Autistic people and provide an important first step in identifying ways to address loneliness in this population.
We are now looking for Autistic and non-Autistic adults to complete an anonymous 15–30 minute survey about their experiences of loneliness and mental health. Please share this study with your networks.
Free webinar
During ARCAP's next free webinar on 26 October, 12.30–1.30 pm (AEDT), researchers will discuss how their work is helping to better understand and measure Autistic experiences of loneliness with the aim of developing ways to alleviate loneliness among Autistic people. This webinar is recommended for researchers, practitioners and therapists, Autistic adults and their families, and disability service providers and practitioners.
Exploring Autistic participation in sport and physical activities
ARCAP and Aspect Autism Friendly recently completed a research study that explored the barriers and facilitators for Autistic adults and children for participation in sport and organised physical activities in Australia.
This study found a glaring unmet need and a strong desire within the Autistic community for more accessible and inclusive opportunities for physical activities. Our findings also indicate that negative past experiences have significantly contributed to the disengagement of many Autistic individuals from physical activities altogether.
Autism disclosure – the online conversation
ARCAP analysed more than 3100 online posts about autism disclosure. The findings emphasise the dire need to increase autism knowledge across employers, healthcare and the general population.
Shortly after publication, this paper ranked 5th in the field of developmental psychology on OOIR.
"Living independently means everything to me"
In this study, Autistic adults told us living independently is important to them, however they require support to develop daily living skills, choose the right place to live and manage the organisational requirements of living independently.
The research findings can help identify areas of support and guide diagnostic processes for Autistic adults.
ARCAP presents at UQ Compassion Conference
ARCAP's postdoctoral researchers, Dr Chris Edwards and Dr Ru Ying Cai presented their work in developing the Aspect Self-Compassion Program for Autistic Adults (ASPAA) at the UQ Compassion Conference.
New COMPASS manual
ARCAP trialled COMPASS in Australia to see if a standardised intervention could lead to better individualised outcomes for Autistic students. Results were positive and are shared in this new COMPASS manual.
Exploring loneliness of Autistic adults – now recruiting!
Emerging research shows that Autistic adults may experience higher levels of loneliness than non-Autistic people. This new international study will help us measure and better understand the experiences of loneliness among Autistic people.
We are looking for Autistic and non-Autistic participants aged 18 years or over to complete an anonymous 15–30-minute survey. For each person who completes the survey, Aspect will donate AU$2 to the participant's choice of one of five international charities.
Understanding mental health among Autistic adults – now recruiting!
Would you like to help further understanding of mental health and well-being among Autistic adults? You are invited to participate in a study looking at understanding patterns that are specific to autism to support the development of effective support options.
Seeking Autistic people 18 years and older who are fluent in English and able to complete a 45-minute online questionnaire. On completion, participants have the chance to win a AU$50 voucher.
Join our research participant registry
Our research is strengthened by understanding the experiences and perspectives of people on the spectrum and the autism community. That’s why our research always includes input from Autistic people and their parents and carers.
If you would like to know more about ARCAP research studies that you can participate in, please join our mailing list. There is no obligation to take part in any of our studies and you can unsubscribe at any time.
