Abstract
Background: Adults with autism spectrum disorder face several barriers to accessing evidence-based care, including difficulties in communicating needs, social anxiety or in traveling to a health care unit. In recent years, several forms of internet-based treatments have shown to be effective for a variety of psychiatric conditions. Internet-based treatment alternatives allow convenient and flexible formats, and therefore have the potential to increase access to health care for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. However, knowledge about how internet-based treatment features may suit the needs of individuals with autism is limited. The aim of this study was to explore the participant experiences of an internet-based intervention for adults with autism spectrum disorder. The primary focus of the investigation was on autism-specific needs in relation to the features unique to the online format.Methods: In this qualitative study, semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 14 participants who had completed a text-based internet-based intervention for adults with autism spectrum disorder. We used an inductive approach and analyzed the data using qualitative content analysis.Results: Five main categories were identified: (1) implications of the online format, (2) the fixed non-individualized model, (3) therapist interaction, (4) interacting with other participants, and (5) making use of the treatment content. Overall, participants appreciated the availability and that they could work on their treatment independent of time or location. Among those participating in group-based chat-sessions with the other participants, it was considered a generally positive experience. Furthermore, most participants felt safe and relaxed in relation to the therapist and appreciated the text-based format. However, several participants felt that the format and content of the treatment was not sufficiently adapted to their individual life situation.Conclusion: In conclusion, this internet-based treatment constitutes an accessible and energy-saving treatment alternative for adults with autism. Further, integrating group-based components seems feasible in an otherwise individual internet-based treatment for individuals with autism. However, group-based components do require a clear purpose and rationale. Future studies should develop and evaluate treatment adaptations tailored to individual needs.
Highlights
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by disabilities in two major areas: [1] social interaction and communication and [2] restricted and repetitive patterns of interest, behavior and activities [1]
The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of adults with ASD who have participated in an internet based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT)
The analysis primarily focuses on how aspects unique to the internet-based format correspond to the prerequisites, preferences and needs of individuals with ASD
Summary
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by disabilities in two major areas: [1] social interaction and communication and [2] restricted and repetitive patterns of interest, behavior and activities [1]. Autism-specific factors, such as difficulties communicating needs or maintaining structure [14, 16] are related to the inaccessibility of health care. The advantages of group-based interventions for individuals with ASD have been suggested in several studies [17,18,19,20] but there are several barriers to participation. Adults with autism spectrum disorder face several barriers to accessing evidence-based care, including difficulties in communicating needs, social anxiety or in traveling to a health care unit. Internet-based treatment alternatives allow convenient and flexible formats, and have the potential to increase access to health care for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The aim of this study was to explore the participant experiences of an internet-based intervention for adults with autism spectrum disorder. The primary focus of the investigation was on autism-specific needs in relation to the features unique to the online format
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