Impact of Selective Eating on Social Domains Among Transition-Age Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Food selectivity is a common feeding problem among autistic children. The objective of this qualitative study was to explore the impact of selective eating on key social domains-with family, peers, and in other social situations-of transition-age autistic youth who self-identified as being food selective. Interviews were conducted with 20 autistic youth ages 18-23 years. Data were analyzed using descriptive and thematic coding. Participants had developed a range of strategies to cope with their food selectivity, and although some expressed concerns, they did not feel that it had a major impact on social situations. A responsive approach to supporting such youth would likely involve recognizing the effort and skills that the youth have already developed around this issue.