Positive well-being is often understood as resulting from a combination of individual strengths and physical, social and psychological environmental characteristics. Limited research has explored the impact of environmental factors that promote high levels of well-being from autistic youth perspectives. The current study aims to identify the environmental characteristics that support well-being among autistic youth.
The current study used secondary data from a study of therapeutic photography with autistic youth. Participants aged 16–25 (n = 20) captured photos of environments that supported their well-being, reflected on each photo and participated in a qualitative interview. Data were analysed thematically within a social constructionist framework, supplemented by qualitative photo analysis.
Seven resulting themes emerged. Thriving is found within environments that enable self-determination, identity affirmation and reflectivity; provide an optimal level of challenge and sensory comfort; and present opportunities to pursue interpersonal connection and personal interests.
The results of the current study emphasise the importance of adapting environments to the individual preferences and needs of autistic youth to best support their well-being. These findings provide guidance for researchers, caregivers, educators and health service providers to consider how best to facilitate neuro-affirming environmental spaces.
