Talent Development in Highly Able Individuals on the Autism Spectrum: A Theory of Asymmetrical Thriving

The purpose of the thesis was to explore autism and talent development in twice-exceptional individuals, generating theory grounded in participants’ experiences. Grounded Theory Methodology was used to answer the research question: How do highly able individuals on the autism spectrum develop their abilities into achievements, and under what conditions? Data was collected from 156 participants (adults with an autism diagnosis, parents, teachers, psychologists, and mentors) via an online questionnaire. Findings indicate that substantial asymmetrical thriving (achievement and coping) in highly able individuals on the autism spectrum involves three key processes: self-propelled learning, personal counterbalancing, and context matching.