2026-10-14T10:21:54Z https://api.figshare.com/v2/oai

oai:figshare.com:article/32639961 2026-10-01T16:35:30Z portal_1172 item_type_8 month_year_10_2026

The role of atypical sensory function in the phenomenology of anxiety in autistic adults: an IPA study Bianca Visser (24169005) PUREID: 609693985 Autism anxiety atypical sensory function Background: Autistic adults are at a higher risk of developing anxiety disorders than non-autistic populations and a growing body of research suggests that this is due to atypical sensory function. However, little is known about autistic adults’ perceptions of anxiety and the impact of atypical sensory function on them from a first-person perspective. The aim of this study was to explore autistic adults’ experiences of anxiety and the role that atypical sensory function plays in its development, maintenance and reduction. Method: 10 autistic adults with a level-1 diagnosis were recruited from the local community via social media and voluntary organisations, and semi-structured interviews were performed. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to analyse the transcripts. Results: Three main group experiential themes (GETs) were identified: descriptions of anxiety; anxiety and the link to sensory experiences; and managing anxiety around sensory experiences. Eight subthemes were identified: anxiety as a constant; intense vs persistent anxiety; anxiety as a physical experience; anxiety increases with negative sensory experiences; negative sensory experiences are subjective; the perception of control influences how sensory input is experienced; the need for social support; and sensory supports as a way to reduce anxiety. Conclusions: Anxiety in autistic adults is a physical experience with subjective sensory triggers. Our findings highlight the vital roles of perception of control and social support. The perception of control with regards to sensory input, both in terms of engaging with it and withdrawing from it, is crucial for managing anxiety effectively.<br><br><i>Thesis embargoed until 31 December 2026.</i> 2026-10-01T16:35:30Z Text Thesis 10.17034/32639961.v1 https://figshare.com/articles/thesis/The_role_of_atypical_sensory_function_in_the_phenomenology_of_anxiety_in_autistic_adults_an_IPA_study/32639961 All Rights Reserved Open Access after 2026-12-31