Samenvatting

Introduction:
Although some adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) require intensive and specialized ASD treatment, there is little research on how these adults experience the recovery process. Recovery is defined as the significant
improvement in general functioning compared to the situation prior to treatment.

Methods:
This qualitative study describes the recovery process from the perspective of adults on the autism spectrum during intensive inpatient treatment. Semi-structured interviews (n = 15) were carried out and analyzed
according to the principles of grounded theory.

Results:
Our results indicate that, given the specific characteristics of autism, therapeutic interventions and goal-oriented work cannot be carried out successfully, and the recovery process cannot begin, if no good working
relationship has been established, and if care is not organized in ways that a person on the autism spectrum finds clear and predictable.