Subjective well-being of people with ASD in Japan

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate developmental changes and factors affecting subjective well-being (SWB) of people with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in Japan. Design/methodology/approach Questionnaires were distributed to participants (n = 87) and interviews(n = 33) were conducted to investigate factors affecting SWB. Findings This study suggested that the SWB of people with ASD might be closely correlated with their self-esteem. Moreover, high school and university students have negative feelings such as anxiety and worries that affected their SWB, whereas working adults have positive feelings and thinking that influenced their SWB. Furthermore, hobbies were the source of happiness for people with ASD. Originality/value This study suggests the factors affecting SWB of people with ASD.