Generative mechanisms of the online social engagement of autistic adults and adolescents: a realist synthesis of literature through the lens of the self-determination theory

Abstract

This realist synthesis of the relevant literature aims to (1) explore how autistic adolescents and adults engage independently in an online social context and (2) identify generative mechanisms of their online social engagement through the theoretical lens of Self-Determination Theory. Findings indicate that an online social environment fulfills the basic psychological needs of autistic adolescents and adults for autonomy, competency and relatedness. In addition, generative mechanisms were identified at individual, educational, and societal levels leading to a paradigm shift from empirical deficits to ontological equality. These findings could have implications on future research and autism support programs in pioneering a framework for social engagement in autism that emphasizes generative mechanisms as an autism-centred approach that can validate and meet the learning and social needs of autistic people.