Table 2.

Definitions of Coding for Emergent Themes with Particular Relevance for Autism

	Code	Description
1	Autism-related knowledge and acceptance of difference	Other people's knowledge about autism: societal views, stigma, individual people encountered, employers, etc. This includes adaptations (e.g., to work environment, clinic processes) that autistic individuals would like or that have been made.
2	External support and services—access and barriers	Reference to gatekeeping/gatekeeping culture. Issues of trust in people providing services. Someone in an official capacity who will stand up for the individual. Need for autism-specific service. This code can also apply to past experiences, for example, at school.
3	Vulnerability (or loss) of resources that people rely on	Loss of support, either financial, or the people/organizations that support the individual. Coping with that uncertainty.
4	Family support	The role family plays in the life of an adult with autism. Could be social, monetary, or advocacy support. Could be restricting experience, expectations, etc. This relates to parents, partners, spouses, etc.
5	Sensory issues	Issues around distractibility, loud noise, etc. (i.e., interaction with the environment) that commonly have impact on autistic individuals.
6	Characteristics of autism	Self-knowledge of one's strengths, limitations, or abilities/skills. Ways that people generally do things that may not be adaptive. Issues that may prevent autistic people from holding a job/obtaining resources, etc. Impacts on functioning include protracted worrying; straight talking; difficulty with uncertainty or change.
7	“Autistic” identity	The sense of identity that “autism” provides and the opportunities for shared experience with other autistic people. Reference to identity politics, for example, disconnection from “neurotypical” experience.
8	Self-determination, autonomy	Points related to having a desire (or lack of desire) about decision-making, whether decision-making is something that is always a good. Choosing how to live; what is important in life; enjoying being on one's own.
9	Mental health issues	Experiences of high anxiety, depression, etc., and the circumstances that may lead to this. Consequences of feeling depressed/anxious. (nb. Discussion of more than everyday stress.)
10	The nature of friendship	What people want friends for; whether they want friends
11	Social engagement	Comments about social interaction being difficult for an autistic adult, or tiring, or not feeling understood in social situations, or issues about safety.