Strand 4: Primary Research - Interviews.

Interview (Autistic Adult - Travel experience)

Participant: Female, 25–34

Question

What does independence mean to you?

Participant

“Being able to carry out a task or activity without need of help or intervention by another person.”

Reflection

For this participant, independence is directly connected to being able to manage without another person's intervention. This makes their later reliance on companions particularly significant.

Question

Can you tell me about an international trip you have taken? Were there any parts of planning or travelling that you found particularly difficult?

Participant

“Being in crowded loud small spaces, especially if not prepared feeling out of control of myself and surroundings. Change in pressure on the plane.”

Reflection

This identifies crowding, noise, lack of space and physical sensations as barriers. Preparation appears to influence how manageable these environments feel.

Question

Have any barriers affected your confidence, independence, or willingness to travel internationally?

Participant