Exploring Positive Identity in Autistic Adolescents: A Feasibility and Acceptability Study of a Co-designed Group Intervention

Abstract

BackgroundCultivating a positive identity may buffer against the adverse mental health outcomes often experienced by autistic individuals. Group settings can provide valuable spaces for identity consolidation. This study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of a co-designed group intervention promoting positive identity and self-esteem among autistic adolescents.MethodsA six-week group intervention was co-developed with eight autistic adolescents. Sixteen autistic adolescents (13-16 years; 10 females, 5 males, 1 non-binary) and their caregivers participated. Psychometric measures were collected pre- and post-intervention to assess self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), wellbeing (Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale), and autistic identity (Multidimensional Social Identification Scale). Feasibility was assessed through recruitment, retention, attendance, and data completeness; acceptability was evaluated via session ratings and post-group interviews analysed using inductive thematic analysis.ResultsThe intervention showed high feasibility (6.25% attrition) and acceptability, with positive feedback on content and facilitation. Themes highlighted the importance of shared experience, social connection, and adaptive delivery.ConclusionsThis novel co-designed intervention was feasible and acceptable for autistic adolescents and caregivers, supporting identity-affirming, post-diagnostic approaches within clinical services.