Identification of Capabilities of Autistic Young Adults: Towards an Understanding of Autistic Flourishing

Views on autism shifted from a biomedical view to a neurodiversity-framework, with a parallel change in views on the nature of wellbeing. In this qualitative study the Capability Approach (CA), a theory of wellbeing, has been operationalized to identify (a) capabilities of young autistic adults in the Netherlands, as well as (b) important aspects in the process of converting resources on a personal, social and environmental level to realize valuable beings and doings. Fourteen young autistic adults with mental health problems and a self-chosen important other were interviewed twice using a semi-structured interview protocol driven by the central capability concepts. Thematic analysis revealed eight capability themes: autonomy, human connection, peace of mind, personal development, health, enjoyment, work and education, and meaning in life. Specific capabilities identified were to be free of sensory overload, participating in specific interests, to be understood by others, and access to autism-friendly care. Preconditions for capability realization related to the interaction between being autistic and social conditions (e.g. feeling misunderstood or bullied), but also to living conditions and resources (e.g. unsafety, poverty). The CA and identified capabilities offer a framework to discuss wellbeing, individual capabilities, and the conversion process with young autistic adults and their important others.