Autism and Homelessness
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating the factors that contribute to unstable living accommodation in adults with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder
IRAS ID
202247
Contact name
Paula Grant
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of East London
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 1 days
Research summary
Factors that contribute to homelessness in the general population are likely to be over represented in the Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) population. Despite the likely prevalence of a homeless population with a diagnosis of ASD, review of the academic literature reveals no research that attempts to understand this process. This acts to perpetuate the range of health and social care inequalities faced by individuals who sit at the intersection of ASD and homelessness. The proposed research responds to this call, undertaking a qualitative investigation of the factors that contribute to homelessness in the ASD population. Through gaining the perspectives of adults with ASD who have been homeless and professionals who have supported them, this research also aims to more clearly represent the voices of adults with ASD in the development of theories to support them. A grounded theory approach will be used and is justified due to the lack of theory relating to this phenomenon. The resulting theory aims account for the expected complexity of this process as well as act to critique and transform dominant social constructions in line with critical realist epistemology. It is hoped that the resulting model will inform and improve support provided by services to this population.
REC name
London - Brent Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/1280
Date of REC Opinion
1 Sep 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion