Necessitats de les dones diagnosticades de trastorn de l’espectre autista en l’edat adulta: projecte de recerca no finalitzat

Abstract

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent difficulties in communication and social interaction, as well as repetitive patterns of behavior. Current evidence shows a higher prevalence in ment than in women, a fact that may be related both to differences in clinical manifestation and to diagnostic criteria skewed towards the male pattern. The review of the current literature shows an underdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of ASD in women, which may hinder access to adequate support and negatively affect their well-being. Given this reality, it is necessary to identify the specific needs of this group in order to improve their health and social care. Furthermore, it is essential to understand how women with ASD may experience their identity and needs differently from men, given the social and cultural context that often minimizes their manifestations and experiences of the disorder. Objective: Identify the specific needs of women who have been diagnosed with ASD in adulthood, thus exploring their lived experiences. Methodology: A qualitative study will be carried out with a phenomenological approach, using semi-structured individual interviews as the main data collection technique. The sample will be composed of women between 18 and 65 years old, diagnosed with this condition within the last five years. The selection will be made by means of a probabilistic and intentional sampling, and the participants will be identified through different centers of the Mental Health and Addictions Network (XSMA) of the province of Girona. The objective is to understand how these women live and perceive the impact of late diagnosis, especially in the social, emotional and labor fields. The use of the phenomenological approach will allow us to explore the subjective experiences of the participants, ensuring a deep understanding of their meanings, perceptions, and experiences in relation to the late diagnosis of ASD