Entwined Realities: Storying AuDHD in Young Adults
Entwined Realities: Storying AuDHD in Young Adults
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Issue Date
2025-09-03
Authors
Cole, Adrian
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Abstract
This research proposal outlines a potential study to deepen current understandings of the lived experiences of young adults diagnosed with co-occurring autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit/hyperactive disorder. Prevalence estimates underscore the extent of this overlap: 30–80% of autistic people present with clinically significant attention deficit/hyperactive disorder symptoms, and 20–50% of those with attention deficit/hyperactive disorder exhibit autistic traits above diagnostic threshold. Until the recent decade, the two could not be diagnosed as cooccurring. The current treatment protocols for this unique diagnostic co-occurrence involves applying methods from the protocols of each diagnosis, yet it is unclear if this piecemeal approach is effective. This gap in clinical application and research is what this study seeks to address. Using a narrative inquiry approach, the proposed study intends to centre participants' voices and analyse their experiences of psychotherapy through the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy has proven its transdiagnostic effectiveness across various studies and shows promise to support this unique population. This proposed study seeks to contribute to neuroaffirming approaches to care by supporting neurodiverse young adults diagnosed with co-occurring autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
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Keywords
autism spectrum disorder , attention deficit /hyperactive disorder , acceptance and commitment therapy , narrative inquiry , neurodiversity
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States , openAccess