The process of puberty in individuals with autism spectrum disorder

This study aims to obtain information about the behaviors of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during puberty and to determine the differences, if any, in the light of previous studies on individuals with Tipically Development (TD). Phenomenology design, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the study. The sample of the study consisted of the mothers or fathers of 9 (nine) individuals with ASD during puberty who were educated in different classes and levels. Although the data was collected through semi-structured interviews, this data was obtained by asking questions in two different forms. Interviews were held online or face to face, depending on the availability of parents. According to the results of the research, although similarities were detected in physical development between individuals with ASD and individuals with TD during puberty, it was revealed that there were some behavioral differences. It was concluded that individuals with ASD exhibited some inappropriate behaviors during puberty, unlike their ASD peers. In addition, it has been observed that there are individuals with ASD who go through this process peacefully. It was determined that the mothers and fathers of the individuals with ASD who participated in the research sought expert support during puberty and the majority of the parents (8 people) believed that sexual education and families should be informed on this subject. It is thought that the findings obtained in the research will contribute to understanding the puberty process of individuals with ASD and to the planning and implementation of educational content for the families of individuals with ASD.