Gathering Requirements for Stress Management in Autistic Adults for the Development of Augmented Reality Self-Interventions
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Autistic adults typically encounter multiple daily stressors, particularly in workplace settings or public spaces, often resulting in sensory overload. To address these challenges, technological interventions have previously been developed to alleviate stress, enhance cognitive functioning and overall well-being. Tools such as mobile devices, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) applications have shown promise in supporting and advancing clinical practices by utilizing sensory-based technologies. In this article, an extension of a published 2023 survey, we present the second phase of research concerning a series of semi-structured interviews with autistic participants and caregivers. We report on the identification of currently used technological preferences, and the perceived potential for new technologies. Coping mechanisms employed and reactions to stress are detailed, trigger locations and stressful scenarios are identified, as well as masking techniques used by autistic adults. The results from the study have identified interest in developing new applications based on existing technologies, with aural sensitivity identified as the main stimuli that needs managed. Participants highlighted the importance of planning as a coping mechanism and indicated that familiarity, in audio and visual feedback, helps to calm participants in times of stress. Respondents commented on existing forms of audio-visual distractors used by autistic people to cope with stressful scenarios, for example, the use of music, and stimming, which could be employed within potential applications to reduce stress. The overarching goal of this research is to address the question, “How can the potentially debilitating effects of stress in autistic adults be mitigated by a self-customizable approach to the design of accessible technologies?” The insights gained will inform future research regarding the design of technological self-interventions for stress management in autistic adults. The findings further identify practical design requirements such as adaptive audio masking, context-aware planning tools, and customizable multimodal feedback to support real-time stress regulation.
DOI: 10.1145/3777370
Authors: John J. McGowan, Iain P. McGregor
Institution: Edinburgh Napier University
Language: English
Subfield: Applied Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4416415724