The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic by persons with ASD: Social aspects.

Researchers interviewed 10 adults with autism about their experiences during COVID-19. Some felt sad about missing face-to-face contact, while others actually liked the social distancing rules. Many appreciated that services moved online and suggested keeping these digital options available after the pandemic, as they can be easier for autistic people to use.

This qualitative study examined how 10 adults with autism experienced social aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic through semi-structured narrative interviews and phenomenological analysis. The research revealed mixed experiences: some participants experienced loss due to reduced direct social contact, while others expressed satisfaction with mandatory social distancing. Participants discussed how pandemic-related changes in public service delivery (digitalisation, online interactions) could be better adapted to autism-specific needs. The study suggests that technological advances and optional online interactions for non-essential services might benefit autistic individuals, offering more flexible social engagement options that accommodate their preferences and needs.

Findings suggest need for flexible service delivery options accommodating diverse social preferences in autism. Digital/online alternatives may benefit some autistic individuals. Clinical services should consider offering both in-person and remote options to meet individual needs and preferences.

Very small sample size (10 participants) limits generalisability. Qualitative design provides rich but subjective data. No comparison group or quantitative measures. Unclear participant demographics and recruitment methods.

While causing a variety of social restrictions, the COVID-19 pandemic has also precipitated the digitalisation of public services and official procedures, reducing many, until recently necessary, immediate social interactions. This study has been conducted to investigate their perception of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on their current and future social interactions. To this end, semi-structured narrative interviews were conducted. Ten adults on the autism spectrum participated in the study.

The phenomenological analysis of the narratives focused on categories related to the social functioning of the study participants. The interpretation of the narratives has shown that autistic people can experience a sense of loss due to the lack of direct contact. On the other hand, we also talked to the participants who expressed their satisfaction with the situation of obligatory social distance. The respondents also discussed the subject of changing the form of interaction in some areas of public life to one that is more adjusted to the needs of people with their condition.

The study concludes with a suggestion that autistic people might benefit from technological progress in institutions and the availability of the option to prefer online contact for interactions that are not strictly necessary.