Keywords

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), College Students, Mental Health, Suicidal Ideation (SI), Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI), Diagnostic Status

Abstract

Rising prevalence rates of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), changes in diagnostic criteria, and increased public awareness have all contributed to the growing population of college students with ASD. However, many individuals - commonly referred to as the “lost generation” - go undiagnosed, due to experiencing negative interactions with mental health professionals. As a result, these individuals are not given the proper support and interventions required for a successful transition into adulthood, and often face heightened social isolation, academic problems, mental health challenges compared to their neurotypical peers. A combination of these factors can lead to increased suicidal ideation (SI) and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI).

This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence of ASD among college students in Florida who either had a formal diagnosis or self-identified with this disorder. Specifically, this study assessed whether diagnostic status was associated with mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, SI and NSSI, which are commonly reported among individuals with ASD but may be intensified in those who lack a formal diagnosis. Participants completed an online survey assessing self-reported ASD characteristics, depressive and anxiety symptoms, SI, and NSSI behaviors.

Findings revealed that over half of the sample met the AQ-10 cutoff for significant autistic traits, and all participants met the clinical criteria for depression. Nearly 90% of the sample met the criteria for anxiety, and over 50% reported a history of NSSI. All participants endorsed SI, with several reporting experiences with SI nearly “every day”. No significant differences in mental health outcomes were found between formally diagnosed and self-identified groups, including frequency and domains of NSSI. This study utilizes the Research Domain Criteria’s (RDoC) framework, offering a comprehensive approach to understanding the intersection between ASD and NSSI behaviors.

Thesis Completion Year

2025

Thesis Completion Semester

Summer

Thesis Chair

Gryglewicz, Kimberley

College

College of Sciences

Department

College of Health Professions and Sciences

Thesis Discipline

School of Social Work

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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Rights Statement

In Copyright