Tizard Centre, School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Research, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK.
Department of Social and Policy Sciences, Centre of Analysis of Social Policy, University of Bath, Bath, UK.
J Autism Dev Disord. 2023 Apr;53(4):1495-1508. doi: 10.1007/s10803-021-05140-3. Epub 2021 Jul 21.
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.
触觉防御在自闭症个体中是研究最少的感觉模态。本项多组分、探索性研究旨在使用半结构式一对一访谈，了解十名自闭症成年人对触觉防御和织物的体验。要求参与者讨论七种提供的织物样本的影响，并要求他们带来他们的“最喜欢的”织物，并表达他们对选择的想法。使用解释现象学分析和内容分析，研究结果表明，一些织物会影响个体报告的幸福感。参与者对几种刺激的体验似乎帮助他们实施了应对策略。通过了解触觉防御，社会可以朝着使用合适的织物增加对自闭症友好的方法的方向发展。还讨论了对未来研究、政策和实践的建议。
